Pan-Seared Tofu with Spicy Garlic Soy Glaze and Scallions

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-21 · Updated 2026-05-21

Crispy pan-seared tofu bites coated in a spicy garlic soy glaze, finished with fresh scallions for a flavorful vegan entrée. This Asian Fusion vegan recipe, ready in about 22 minutes, pairs extra firm tofu, soy sauce, and maple syrup 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 "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-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 stalks scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed extra firm tofu in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
2. Step 2: While tofu cooks, mix 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes in a small bowl.
3. Step 3: Pour the soy-garlic mixture over the tofu in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 2-3 minutes, gently tossing to coat tofu cubes, until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and sprinkle 3 thinly sliced scallions and 1 tsp sesame seeds over top before serving.