Sweet & Savory Teriyaki Tofu Recipe

Introduction

Teriyaki Tofu is a delicious and easy plant-based dish that combines crispy tofu with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty lunch, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for pan-frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Press the tofu with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
2. Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and pan-fry until all sides are golden and crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic to make the teriyaki sauce.
4. Step 4: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the tofu in the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and serve warm over rice or steamed vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, coat tofu cubes lightly in cornstarch before frying.
• Add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of ginger to the sauce for additional depth of flavor.
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
• Serve with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added texture and freshness.

Storage

Store leftover teriyaki tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The tofu may lose some crispiness but will remain flavorful.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft or silken tofu for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for pan-frying since it holds its shape well. Soft or silken tofu will break apart and is better suited for soups or blended dishes.

How can I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook until it thickens to your liking.

Sweet & Savory Teriyaki Tofu Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 105 reviews

This Teriyaki Tofu recipe features crispy pan-fried tofu cubes coated in a rich, savory teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. The tofu is cooked until beautifully glazed, making it a perfect plant-based main or side dish with bold flavors and a satisfying texture.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Japanese
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Tofu

• 14 oz (400 g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu: Drain the tofu and press it gently between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
2. Pan-fry the tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the teriyaki sauce: In the same pan, reduce the heat to low and add soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and water. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer gently until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Glaze the tofu: Return the fried tofu cubes to the pan and toss them gently in the simmering teriyaki sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to fully coat each piece and become sticky and glossy.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the teriyaki tofu warm, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. It pairs well with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.

Notes

• Pressing the tofu is essential to remove excess moisture for better crispiness when frying.
• You can adjust the sugar amount in the sauce to make it sweeter or less sweet according to preference.
• Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best results to maintain shape during cooking.
• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Keywords: Teriyaki tofu, pan-fried tofu, vegan teriyaki, plant-based dinner, Japanese tofu recipe