Do I have to press the tofu first?

Pressing tofu is highly recommended. The only time you can skip this step is if you’re using vacuum-sealed super firm tofu , which is already very dry. If you’re using any kind of extra-firm tofu, pressing is a must for the best texture.

Can I make this tofu oil-free?

This crispy tofu recipe is already naturally low in oil, but if you’d like to make it a completely oil-free recipe, omit the neutral cooking oil and pan fry in a dry, nonstick skillet. The tofu will be drier and can have a slightly chalky texture, but it will still be flavorful.

How do I make maple-glazed tofu gluten-free?

Great question! Simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari and this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

The Easiest Crispy Maple Glazed Tofu

Description

This Maple Glazed Tofu is made with just 8 simple ingredients and is easy to throw together with minimal prep and a few dishes. Serve with rice, noodles, or your favorite veggies for a flavorful, fuss-free dinner.

Ingredients

14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
2 tablespoons oil (we use avocado)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
Pinch of black pepper
Garnish: toasted sesame seeds and green onions

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Instructions

Prep the tofu. Press the tofu using a tofu press (or learn how to press tofu without a tofu press!) for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry, cut into 1″ cubes. Alternatively, you can slice the tofu into ½”-inch slabs, then cut each slab diagonally to form triangles.
Toss in seasoning. In a large bowl, mix the cornstarch with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, then toss in the tofu until evenly coated.
Pan fry until golden. Heat a neutral cooking oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add the tofu in a single layer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy on all sides.
Prepare the maple glaze. While the tofu is cooking, prepare the glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, and vinegar. Set aside.
Glaze it up. Once the tofu is golden, reduce the heat to low and pour the maple glaze over top. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, or until the glaze thickens and evenly coats the tofu.
Enjoy! Serve immediately while warm and crispy with sesame seeds and green onions, as desired.

Notes

Gluten-free: To make this recipe gluten-free, swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari.
Storage: As with all of our crispy tofu recipes, this is best enjoyed while fresh. Over time, it will lose its crispiness, but leftovers will keep for up to 2 days.
Reheat: We recommend an air fryer to bring some of that crispiness back.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stove Top