Crispy Tofu Teriyaki

 Crispy Tofu Teriyaki: Your New Favorite Healthy Weeknight Meal!

Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make weeknight meal that's packed with flavor? Look no further! This Crispy Tofu Teriyaki recipe is here to save the day. Whether you're a seasoned tofu lover or new to the plant-based scene, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. We'll show you how to achieve perfectly crispy tofu every time, coated in a luscious, homemade teriyaki sauce that's far superior to anything store-bought.

Tofu often gets a bad rap for being bland, but with the right preparation, it can be incredibly satisfying. Our secret to crispy tofu involves a simple pressing and coating method that creates a delightful texture, soaking up all the delicious teriyaki goodness. Pair it with some fluffy rice and your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & Nutritious: Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, and this recipe is loaded with fresh vegetables.

• Flavorful: The homemade teriyaki sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.

• Easy to Make: Despite sounding fancy, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy weeknights.

• Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season.

Let's get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Crispy Tofu

• 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm or super-firm tofu

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/2 cup soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

• 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

For Serving (Optional)

• Cooked rice

• Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)

• Sesame seeds

• Chopped green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Press the Tofu

This is a crucial step for crispy tofu!

1. Drain the tofu from its packaging.

2. Wrap the tofu block in several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

3. Place it on a plate and put something heavy on top (e.g., a stack of cookbooks, a cast-iron skillet).

4. Press for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to remove excess water. The drier the tofu, the crispier it will get!

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

1. Once pressed, unwrap the tofu and cut it into 1-inch cubes.

2. In a medium bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Tofu

1. Heat the neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.

4. Remove the crispy tofu from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. In the same skillet (no need to clean it), reduce the heat to medium.

2. Add the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk to combine.

3. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry.

4. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet with the teriyaki sauce.

2. Gently toss the tofu to coat it completely with the sauce.

3. Remove from heat and serve immediately over cooked rice and with your favorite stir-fried or steamed vegetables.

4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Don't skip pressing the tofu: This is the key to achieving a truly crispy texture.

• Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the tofu space to crisp up evenly. If you add too much, it will steam instead of fry.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to add more or less brown sugar to your teriyaki sauce based on your preference.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Cooked crispy tofu teriyaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It's great for packed lunches!

Variations

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a little heat.

• Add more veggies: Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy all work wonderfully.

• Pineapple power: For a touch of sweetness and acidity, add some pineapple chunks to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking with the sauce.

Enjoy this delightful and healthy Crispy Tofu Teriyaki! It's a dish that proves plant-based eating can be incredibly satisfying and flavorful. We hope it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation.