Description
This Chili Crunch Tofu recipe features crispy, golden tofu cubes coated in a spicy, savory chili crisp sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful vegan main dish, it’s wonderfully versatile to serve over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. The combination of chili crunch, soy sauce, and aromatic garlic delivers an irresistible kick with a balance of heat, umami, and slight sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Coating
- 14 oz block extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili crisp or chili crunch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as avocado or canola)
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Press and Prepare Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps it crisp up better during cooking. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- Coat Tofu: In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch and salt until each piece is evenly coated. This coating forms a crispy outer layer when cooked.
- Cook Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
- Prepare Sauce: While the tofu cooks, whisk together the chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and minced garlic in a small bowl to create a flavorful sauce with a spicy and tangy profile.
- Combine Tofu and Sauce: Once the tofu is crispy, pour the prepared sauce over the skillet. Stir gently to evenly coat each tofu piece with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Top the tofu with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately over your choice of steamed rice, noodles, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fresh contrast.
Notes
- Best served over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a complete meal.
- For extra heat, add a dash of sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
