Honey Garlic Tofu is a simple and tasty dish that brings together crispy tofu cubes coated in a sweet and garlicky sauce. The combination of sticky honey with the bold flavor of garlic makes each bite really satisfying and full of flavor. This dish is a great way to enjoy tofu, especially if you’re looking for something easy to make but still packed with taste.
I love making honey garlic tofu on busy weeknights because it feels like a little treat but comes together super fast. I usually toss the tofu in a pan until it’s golden and crispy, then pour over the sauce to coat everything perfectly. It’s one of those dishes that even people who don’t usually go for tofu find themselves enjoying because the flavors are just so approachable and comforting.
My favorite way to serve honey garlic tofu is over a bed of rice or noodles, with some steamed veggies on the side to keep it fresh and balanced. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds on top to make it feel a bit special. This dish has become a go-to when I want something warm, delicious, and simple to whip up—and I hope it becomes one of yours too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best here because it holds its shape when fried and soaks up the sauce nicely. If you have silken tofu, it’s better for soups or smoothies, not frying.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps make the sauce sticky. For a vegan option, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead. These alternatives give a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami to balance the honey. For gluten-free cooking, tamari is a great soy sauce substitute. You can also try coconut aminos if you want a soy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punch of flavor. Avoid garlic powders here because they won’t deliver the same aroma and intensity when sautéed.
How Do You Make Crispy Tofu That Stays Firm?
Getting tofu crispy outside and tender inside is the secret to a great honey garlic tofu dish. Here’s how I do it:
- First, press the tofu well. Wrapping in a towel and applying weight for 15-20 mins removes extra water, helping it crisp up better.
- Cut tofu into even cubes so they cook evenly.
- Use medium-high heat and enough oil to cover the pan’s surface. Avoid overcrowding the pan by frying in batches if needed.
- Turn tofu gently to brown all sides without breaking them.
- Once golden and crispy, remove tofu and finish cooking sauce in the same pan to pick up extra flavor.
This method gives you tofu that is crispy on the outside but soft and flavorful inside, ready to catch that sticky honey garlic glaze perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick or cast iron skillet – I prefer it because it helps fry the tofu evenly and makes cleanup easier.
- Spatula or tongs – these help turn the tofu gently without breaking it apart.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise amounts of honey, soy sauce, and vinegar.
- Small bowl – to mix the cornstarch slurry for thickening the sauce.
- Kitchen towel or clean cloth – to press out moisture from the tofu before cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it vegan and add a different sweetness profile.
- Add chopped bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra veggies and crunch.
- Include a splash of rice wine or a few drops of sesame oil in the sauce for extra flavor depth.
- Spice things up by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha for heat.
Honey Garlic Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for sauce thickening)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. Pressing the tofu takes around 15-20 minutes (you can do this ahead of time). Frying the tofu and making the sauce will take roughly 10-15 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dish perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press and Prepare the Tofu:
Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet or a few books) on top for about 15-20 minutes to drain excess water. After pressing, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes, ready for frying.
2. Fry the Tofu:
Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes or fresh chili if you like a little heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce and Combine:
Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir, then slowly pour it into the sauce while stirring continuously. Let the sauce cook and thicken for 1-2 minutes. Return the fried tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat the tofu cubes evenly with the sticky, flavorful sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the pan from heat and transfer the tofu to a serving bowl. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve warm over steamed rice or noodles, with your favorite vegetables on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for This Recipe?
Yes! Frozen tofu works great here because it becomes extra firm and chewy after thawing. Just thaw it completely (ideally overnight in the fridge), squeeze out excess moisture, and proceed with pressing and cooking as usual.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Both provide a similar sweetness and help create that sticky glaze without animal products.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover honey garlic tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Bake the Tofu Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, bake the tofu cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Then toss with the honey garlic sauce as instructed.