Firm tofu is pressed, cubed, and baked or pan-fried until golden, then coated in a sticky Sriracha glaze that hits sweet, spicy, and savory all at once. The whole recipe takes around 30 minutes. These bites work as an appetizer, a snack, or a protein-packed topping for grain bowls and salads.
14ozextra-firm tofudrained and pressed for 30 minutes
2tbspcornstarchfor crisp texture
1tbspneutral oilsuch as avocado or grapeseed oil
For the Sriracha Glaze
2tbspSrirachaadjust to taste
1tbspmaple syrupadds sweetness and depth
2tspsoy sauceor tamari for gluten-free
1tsprice vinegarfor balance
1clovegarlicfinely minced
1tsptoasted sesame oilfor extra depth
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Instructions
Prepare the tofu. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch wide. Pat them dry again with paper towels for the best sear. Toss the tofu gently in a bowl with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Crisp the tofu. Heat the neutral oil in a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron pan over medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C). Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until all faces are crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Make the glaze. In a small bowl, stir together the Sriracha, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sesame oil until smooth.
Glaze the tofu. Pour the glaze into the same pan over low heat and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, just until it starts to reduce slightly. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan, and toss to coat every piece evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize onto the tofu.
Notes
For extra crunch, coat tofu in panko breadcrumbs after tossing in cornstarch before pan-frying.
If you're sensitive to spice, reduce the Sriracha to 1 tablespoon and add more maple syrup to balance.
You can double the glaze and drizzle it over rice or roasted veggies for a full meal.