Crispy Garlic Tofu with Sweet Chili -

In recent years, plant-based diets have surged in popularity as more people seek healthier, sustainable eating options. As a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient, tofu has emerged as a favorite among both vegans and vegetarians. One standout recipe that perfectly showcases the potential of tofu is Crispy Garlic Tofu with Sweet Chili. This dish combines the crunchy texture of perfectly fried tofu, the aromatic essence of garlic, and the delightful sweetness of chili sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates.

Crispy Garlic Tofu with Sweet Chili

Discover the deliciousness of crispy garlic tofu with sweet chili sauce, a standout plant-based dish that satisfies cravings without compromising health. This recipe features perfectly fried tofu, infused with garlic and complemented by a sweet and tangy chili sauce. Learn essential tips on selecting and cooking tofu to achieve a golden, crunchy texture. Ideal for vegans and non-vegans alike, this meal is both nutritious and versatile—perfectly paired with rice or salad for a complete experience.

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Ingredients

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu

4 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu:

- Start by pressing the tofu to eliminate excess moisture for better crispiness. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet or a few cookbooks, on top of it. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

Cut and Season:

- After pressing, unwrap the tofu and cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the soy sauce over the tofu, tossing gently to ensure each cube is evenly coated.

Coat with Cornstarch:

- Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned tofu cubes. Carefully toss the tofu again until every piece is well-coated with cornstarch, as this is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Fry the Tofu:

- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry the tofu for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. If necessary, fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan which can result in soggy tofu.

Make the Garlic Sauce:

- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful to stir continuously to avoid burning the garlic.

Combine and Glaze:

- Pour in the sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or agave syrup), and red pepper flakes. Gently toss the crispy tofu in the sauce mixture, allowing it to heat through and become well-coated, for about 1-2 minutes.

Serve:

- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the glazed tofu to a serving dish. Garnish with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.

Enjoy:

- Serve the warm crispy garlic tofu as an enticing appetizer or main dish, paired with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

Presentation Tips:

For an appealing presentation, serve the tofu on a bright-colored plate, creating a small mound of the tofu in the center. Drizzle any leftover sauce around the dish and finish with an extra sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color.