Pan-Fried Asian-Style Tofu with Sesame Soy Glaze

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-10 · Updated 2026-05-10

Firm tofu pan-fried until crispy and coated with a savory sesame soy glaze, perfect for a quick Asian-inspired vegetarian dish. This Asian-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 25 minutes, pairs firm tofu block, sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 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 "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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch slices firm tofu block
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp sliced green onions

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Step 2: Add 14 oz firm tofu slices in a single layer, frying for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
3. Step 3: While tofu cooks, in a small bowl whisk together 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger.
4. Step 4: After tofu is browned on both sides, reduce heat to medium and pour the soy sauce mixture over the tofu in the pan.
5. Step 5: Cook for 2-3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the tofu continuously until it thickens slightly and coats the tofu pieces.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 tbsp sliced green onions over the tofu before serving with steamed rice or noodles.