If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch, look no further. This intensely crispy sticky honey soy glazed tofu is a game-changer. With its caramelized exterior and tender inside, it’s a delightful meal that even tofu skeptics will adore. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your kitchen.
Steps
- Drain the tofu and cut it in half to create two thinner slices. Wrap these slices in a kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top to press out excess liquid for 30 minutes to an hour. Once pressed, cut the tofu into approximately 16 cubes.
- Sprinkle the tofu cubes evenly with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, ensuring each side is coated. Add onion and garlic powder to the cubes for additional flavor.
- Heat a stainless steel pan and add 2 tablespoons of canola oil. Fry the tofu cubes on medium to high heat, allowing each side to crisp for 3-5 minutes. Remove the cubes and let them drain on a paper towel.
- Reduce the pan’s heat to low and sauté minced shallots and garlic until they are translucent and slightly crispy. In a separate container, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to form a smooth slurry.
- Add ¼ cup of soy sauce to the pan to deglaze it, and then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook the mixture on medium heat until it thickens.
- Place the tofu cubes on a serving dish and pour the thickened sauce over them. Drizzle honey over the top, or mix it into the sauce if preferred. Garnish with green onions or chives before serving.
Ingredients
- 16-ounce block of Extra Firm Tofu
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 2 tablespoons Canola Oil
- ? cup Minced Shallot
- 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Water
- ¼ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- Honey, for drizzling
- Chopped Chives or Sliced Green Onions, for garnish
Nutritional Values
Calories: 806kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 75.6g | Fat: 41.2g | Saturated Fat: 6.6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13.6g | Sodium: 2872mg | Potassium: 203mg | Fiber: 6.8g | Sugar: 4.4g | Vitamin A: 64.6IU | Vitamin C: 6.6mg | Calcium: 36.8mg | Iron: 50.2mg
FAQ
- Why is pressing tofu important?
- Pressing tofu is crucial as it removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to become crispy when cooked. Skipping this step can result in soggy tofu.
- Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?
- Yes, you can use any neutral oil with a high smoking point, such as vegetable or sunflower oil. Olive oil is not recommended due to its lower smoking point and distinct flavor.
- What can I use instead of cornstarch for coating the tofu?
- If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder, potato starch, or another similar starch as an alternative.
- Is there a vegan substitute for honey in this recipe?
- Agave syrup is a great vegan alternative to honey. Maple syrup can also be used, but start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
- Can I eat tofu without cooking it?
- Yes, tofu can be consumed raw or cooked. It’s often used raw in dishes like soups or blended into sauces and dips.
Tips
- Press the Tofu Thoroughly: Ensure you press the tofu well to remove excess water. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture, as moisture can lead to sogginess.
- Choose the Right Pan: Use a stainless steel pan for frying, as it retains heat effectively and helps achieve a crispier finish. If that’s unavailable, a cast iron pan is a good alternative.
- Experiment with Sweeteners: If you’re avoiding honey for vegan reasons, try using agave or even maple syrup. Just start with a small amount and adjust to taste to maintain the glaze’s sweetness.
- Proper Cornstarch Coating: Apply cornstarch evenly over all sides of the tofu cubes. This assists in creating a crispy exterior and helps the glaze adhere better.
Equipment
- Tofu Press – To effectively press out the excess liquid from the tofu.
- Stainless Steel Pan – Highly recommended for achieving the best crispiness in the tofu.
- Sifter – Helpful for evenly sprinkling cornstarch over the tofu cubes (though not strictly necessary).
- Measuring Cups – For accurately measuring ingredients like cornstarch and water for the slurry.