Crispy Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Soy Glaze

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-07 · Updated 2026-06-07

Firm tofu pan-fried until golden crisp and coated in a savory garlic-soy glaze that delivers umami-packed flavor. This Asian vegan recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs extra-firm tofu, cornstarch, and vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Build a week of meals around this recipe" 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 sliced thin for garnish green onions
• 1 tbsp for garnish toasted sesame seeds

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: After pressing excess water from a 14 oz block of extra-firm tofu, cut it into 1/2-inch cubes and toss gently in 3 tbsp cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer and cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until bottoms are golden and crispy.
3. Step 3: Turn tofu cubes carefully and cook an additional 4 minutes until all sides are crispy and golden.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp sesame oil.
5. Step 5: Pour the garlic-soy glaze over the tofu in the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and toss gently to coat. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the tofu.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving over steamed rice or noodles.