Crisp Pan-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Pan-fried tofu cubes with a crispy exterior served alongside a creamy, spicy peanut sauce for a satisfying vegan dish. This asian-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 22 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, peanut butter into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cut 14 oz extra-firm tofu (pressed to remove excess moisture) into 1-inch cubes. Toss gently with 3 tbsp cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning carefully until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp sriracha, 3 tbsp warm water, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Remove the tofu from the skillet and transfer to a serving plate. Drizzle with the spicy peanut sauce or serve on the side for dipping.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Crisp Pan-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Crisp Pan-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crisp Pan-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crisp Pan-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Crisp Pan-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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