Imagine sinking your teeth into a piece of Crispy Sticky Tofu: the golden crust crackles delightfully, revealing a tender, flavorful interior. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around and anticipate the deliciousness to come. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

As I whip up this dish, I am transported back to my college days when I first discovered tofu’s magical ability to absorb flavors like a sponge. It was a late-night cooking adventure with friends that turned into an unforgettable feast. Since then, Crispy Sticky Tofu has become our go-to dish for celebrations and cozy nights in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crispy Sticky Tofu is incredibly easy to prepare and packs a flavor punch that will leave everyone craving more
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any plate
- Perfect for weeknight dinners but versatile enough for meal prep or entertaining guests
- Enjoy it as a main dish or toss it into salads and stir-fries for extra crunch
There was that one time when my friend Sarah took her first bite and exclaimed, “Oh wow, this is better than my last date!” Now that’s high praise!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Firm Tofu: Choose extra-firm tofu for the best texture; it holds up beautifully during cooking.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce perfectly.
Cornstarch: Essential for that crispy coating; it creates a delightful crunch on the tofu.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings a pungent kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Sesame Oil: Adds depth and a nutty aroma that makes your taste buds dance.
Green Onions: These provide a fresh garnish; chop them finely for that finishing touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Sticky Tofu
Prepare the Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness as you cook it.
Cut and Marinate: Slice the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil; toss the tofu gently until coated.
Dredge with Cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch over marinated tofu pieces. Toss them until they are evenly coated; this ensures that every bite is satisfyingly crunchy.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add tofu pieces in batches; fry until golden brown on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side.
Create the Sticky Glaze: Remove cooked tofu from the pan temporarily. In the same skillet, add remaining marinade and simmer until thickened slightly—about 2-3 minutes.
Add Tofu Back In: Return crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently in the sticky glaze until well-coated. Let it soak up flavors for another minute before serving.
Now you have a delightful plate of Crispy Sticky Tofu ready to impress! Serve it warm alongside rice or vegetables, or enjoy it straight from the pan (no judgment here).
You Must Know
- Crispy Sticky Tofu is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The crunch, combined with a sweet and savory glaze, transforms tofu into a crowd-pleaser
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is your ticket to tofu fame!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water, ensuring a crispy texture. While it’s pressing, prepare your sauce to maximize efficiency and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like soy sauce for tamari or add veggies like bell peppers. Customize the spice level with chili flakes or fresh ginger for an extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Crispy Sticky Tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore its crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always use firm or extra-firm tofu to achieve that desired crunch
- Marinating the tofu briefly enhances its flavor profile significantly
- Lastly, allow the sauce to thicken slightly before adding the tofu for optimal coating
Sharing my first attempt at making Crispy Sticky Tofu remains a cherished memory; my friends devoured every bite and insisted I make it again!
FAQ
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best crispy texture and flavor absorption.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and press the tofu ahead of time for convenience.
How do I keep the tofu crispy when reheating?
Reheat in a skillet instead of a microwave to maintain that delightful crunchiness.

Crispy Sticky Tofu
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- Author: Emma
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy Sticky Tofu is a delectable dish that combines a crunchy, golden exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. This easy-to-make recipe transforms tofu into a crowd favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With its sweet and savory glaze, Crispy Sticky Tofu is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Press the tofu between paper towels for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Toss the tofu in the marinade until evenly coated.
- Dredge the marinated tofu in cornstarch until fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu pieces in batches until golden brown on all sides (3-4 minutes per side).
- Remove the tofu from the skillet and add any remaining marinade. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently in the glaze until well-coated before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3.5 oz (100g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg