Sweet and Savory Teriyaki Tofu Recipe
Introduction
Teriyaki tofu is a delicious and simple plant-based dish that packs a flavorful punch. With a sweet and savory glaze, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut into cubes or slices according to your preference.
- Step 2: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pan-fry the tofu pieces until they are golden and crisp on all sides.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic to create the teriyaki sauce.
- Step 4: Pour the sauce over the tofu in the pan and reduce the heat to low.
- Step 5: Simmer the tofu in the sauce, turning occasionally, until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu nicely, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and serve warm with your choice of rice or vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add a splash of sesame oil or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving for a nutty touch.
- Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Try adding fresh ginger with the garlic for an added zing.
Storage
Store leftover teriyaki tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?
Soft tofu is not recommended for this recipe as it tends to break apart during cooking. Firm or extra-firm tofu holds its shape best when pan-frying and glazing.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Allow the teriyaki sauce to simmer gently until it reduces and thickens naturally. Alternatively, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the pan to thicken the sauce quickly.
PrintSweet and Savory Teriyaki Tofu Recipe
This Teriyaki Tofu recipe features crispy pan-fried tofu glazed with a homemade savory and sweet teriyaki sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful vegan dish that can be served as a main or a side, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it gently to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes or slices to ensure uniform cooking.
- Pan-Fry the Tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add soy sauce and sugar, stirring to dissolve the sugar and combine well.
- Simmer and Glaze: Return the fried tofu to the pan. Toss gently to coat the tofu with the sauce. Let the tofu simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and glazes the tofu evenly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your Teriyaki Tofu with steamed rice or vegetables for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu thoroughly removes water and helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Adjust the sugar in the sauce for sweetness to your preference.
- Use firm or extra-firm tofu to ensure it holds its shape during cooking.
- For more flavor, you can add ginger or a splash of mirin to the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and add to the sauce while simmering.
Keywords: Teriyaki tofu, vegan tofu recipe, pan-fried tofu, easy teriyaki sauce, plant-based main
