Crispy Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce
Discover the perfect balance of crispy and creamy with this irresistible Crispy Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce! This plant-based dish combines golden, pan-fried tofu cubes—coated in a light, crunchy layer of cornstarch—with a silky, flavor-packed peanut sauce laced with soy sauce, sriracha, and a hint of maple syrup for a sweet-heat kick. Quick to prepare in just 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and optional sesame seeds, it’s a versatile dish that’s both vegan-friendly and protein-rich. Pair this mouthwatering tofu with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., vegetable oil)
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha (or other hot sauce)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 0.25 cup warm water
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a plate, and weigh it down with a heavy object for 15 minutes.
While the tofu is being pressed, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and warm water until smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed. Set the sauce aside.
Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes and toss them in a bowl with cornstarch, ensuring all sides are coated evenly.
Heat 1 tbsp of sesame oil and 3 tbsp of neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until all sides are golden and crisp. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set the crispy tofu aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
To serve, arrange the crispy tofu on a platter, drizzle generously with the spicy peanut sauce, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
696 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 53.0 g | 68% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 785 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 31.3 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.2 g | 22% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.7 g | ||
| Protein | 29.6 g | 59% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 418 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 4.5 mg | 25% | |
| Potassium | 590 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
