Vegetarian Crispy Fried Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce
Introducing a delicious twist on comfort food, this Vegetarian Crispy Fried "Chicken" with Honey Garlic Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines the irresistible crunch of golden-fried tofu with a sweet and savory sauce that will have you hooked from the first bite. Perfect for vegetarians craving the classic flavors of fried chicken, this recipe uses extra-firm tofu, marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a seasoned flour mixture with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for authentic fried chicken vibes. The crisp tofu pieces are paired with a rich honey garlic sauce made with butter, soy sauce, and fresh minced garlic, creating a dynamic combination of textures and flavors in every bite. Finished with sesame seeds and a sprinkle of green onions, this dish is a showstopper that's quick to prepare and ideal for dinner parties or casual weeknight meals. Packed with plant-based protein, it's a game-changer that gives fried chicken a healthy and vegetarian-friendly makeover!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 14 ounces extra-firm tofu
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture: Wrap the tofu block with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object like a skillet on top for 15-20 minutes.
While the tofu drains, in a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Cut the pressed tofu into strips or bite-sized pieces. Place them in the buttermilk mixture to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, remaining salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Remove the tofu pieces from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge them in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
Fry the tofu pieces in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
To make the sauce, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the honey and soy sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
Arrange the fried tofu on a serving platter and drizzle the honey garlic sauce over them.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1450 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 122.0 g | 156% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.3 g | 107% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 67.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 22 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1233 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 75.5 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.7 g | ||
| Protein | 23.3 g | 47% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 442 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 339 mg | 7% | |
*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.
