Spicy Garlic Crispy Tofu

Spicy Garlic Crispy Tofu

Ingredients:

For the tofu coating:

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce 

  • 1 tablespoon cornflour

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ⅔ cup plain breadcrumbs 

 

For the sauce:

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • ⅓ cup water

  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

  • 1–2 tablespoons Sri Lankan-style vegan chilli paste (adjust to your spice preference)

  • 1 tablespoon sriracha

  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic

  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

  • 2 teaspoons cornflour (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Press the tofu.
    Drain the tofu block and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Place on a tray lined with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Set a heavy object (like a pan or book) on top and press for about 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

  2. Preheat the oven.
    Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

  3. Coat the tofu.
    In a medium bowl, toss the pressed tofu with soy sauce. Sprinkle over cornflour and garlic powder, mixing gently to coat each piece. Then add the breadcrumbs and toss again until all sides are covered evenly.

  4. Bake until crispy.
    Arrange the coated tofu cubes on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

  5. Make the spicy garlic sauce.
    While the tofu bakes, whisk together the sugar, water, rice vinegar, Sri Lankan vegan chilli paste, sriracha, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a small saucepan.
    Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Stir in the cornflour (dissolved in a splash of water) and keep whisking until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.

  6. Combine and serve.
    Once the tofu is ready, let it cool slightly, then toss it in the warm sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately while the tofu is hot and crisp.

Notes & Tips:

  • Pressing the tofu well helps it bake up crisp and golden.

  • For a quicker version, cook the tofu in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
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