Easy Chili Crisp Tofu

Name: Easy Chili Crisp Tofu
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons neutral oil; 2 tablespoons chili crisp; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; Pinch of sugar; Green onions, sliced; Toasted sesame seeds

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This chili crisp tofu has become one of our favorite quick meals, and it’s almost too easy to make. Tofu gets coated in cornstarch and pan-fried until it’s golden and crispy, then tossed in a punchy sauce made with chili crisp, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. The result is crispy, spicy, savory, and a little tangy all at once.

horizontal photo of Chili Crisp Tofu cubes in pan with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds

The whole thing comes together in about 20 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Chili crisp does most of the flavor work here, so the sauce comes together with just a few pantry staples. Serve it over rice, toss it into noodles, or just eat it straight from the pan with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds. However you serve it, it’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again.

close up of Chili Crisp Tofu in bowl with rice and broccoli, topped with scallions and toasted sesame seeds

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 20 minutes. Quick enough for the busiest weeknights.
Crispy and golden. The cornstarch coating gives the tofu an irresistible crispy exterior.
Spicy and savory. Chili crisp brings heat, crunch, and tons of flavor with almost no effort.
Minimal ingredients. Just a handful of pantry staples and you’re good to go.
Versatile. Serve it over rice, with noodles, in lettuce wraps, or on its own.

labeled ingredients for chili crisp tofu: sugar, salt, green onions, extra firm tofu, toasted sesame seeds, chili crisp, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar

Ingredients You’ll Need

Extra-firm tofu – Pressed and cubed. Extra-firm holds its shape and gets the crispiest.
Cornstarch – Creates that light, crispy coating when the tofu is pan-fried.
Salt – Seasons the tofu coating.
Neutral oil – For frying. Use vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.
Chili crisp – The star of the dish that brings heat, crunch, and savory depth. Use Lao Gan Ma or your favorite brand.
Soy sauce – Adds salty, umami flavor to the sauce.
Rice vinegar – Brightens the sauce with a touch of tang.
Sugar – Just a pinch to balance the heat and acidity.
Green onions – Sliced for freshness and a mild onion bite.
Toasted sesame seeds – For garnish and a nutty crunch.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tofu press (or a clean towel and something heavy)
Knife and cutting board

overhead photo of Chili Crisp Tofu cubes in pan with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds

Tips for the Best Results

Press the tofu well. Removing excess moisture is the key to getting it crispy. Press for at least 10 minutes.
Coat evenly with cornstarch. Make sure every cube has a thin, even coating for maximum crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the tofu in a single layer so it crisps up instead of steaming.
Taste and adjust the sauce. Chili crisp varies by brand, so taste the sauce and add more sugar or soy sauce to balance it as you like.
Add the sauce off the heat. Toss the fried tofu in the sauce right at the end so it stays crispy, and the chili crisp doesn’t burn.

diced tofu in glass bowl with cornstarch on top

diced tofu in glass bowl coated in cornstarch

Serving Suggestions

Over steamed rice – The classic way. The rice soaks up all that flavorful sauce.
With noodles – Toss it with udon, rice noodles, or your favorite noodles.
In lettuce wraps – Spoon the tofu into crisp lettuce cups for a fresh, light meal.
With steamed vegetables – Serve alongside bok choy, broccoli, or green beans for a complete dinner.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The tofu will soften as it sits.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the air fryer to bring back some crispiness. The microwave will make it soft.
Best fresh: This dish is at its crispiest right after cooking, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

photo of Chili Crisp Tofu cubes in pan with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds

Recipe FAQs

What is chili crisp?

Chili crisp is a crunchy chili oil condiment made with fried chilies, garlic, and other aromatics. It adds heat, texture, and savory flavor. Lao Gan Ma is a popular brand.

How spicy is this?

It depends on your chili crisp. Most are mild to medium. Use more or less to control the heat, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your chili crisp is gluten-free.

Why isn’t my tofu crispy?

Make sure the tofu is well-pressed and evenly coated in cornstarch, the oil is hot before adding the tofu, and you’re not crowding the pan.

horizontal image of Chili Crisp Tofu in bowl with rice and broccoli, topped with scallions and toasted sesame seeds

More Tofu Recipes You May Enjoy:

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