Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu

Crispy, sticky, and perfectly balanced between sweet heat and garlicky goodness — this Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu is the ultimate comfort dish you’ll want to make again and again. The golden, pan-fried tofu pieces soak up a glossy honey-garlic glaze with a touch of gochujang for that addictive kick. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just tofu-curious, this easy recipe is sure to convert you.

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It’s quick, it’s satisfying, and it pairs beautifully with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or noodles. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve when you want to wow guests with a meatless main that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu

• Crispy on the outside, tender inside – the cornstarch coating gives the tofu a perfect crunch while keeping the inside soft.
• A balance of flavors – sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and the bold heat of gochujang blend into a glossy glaze that clings beautifully to every bite.
• Quick and easy – done in about 30 minutes, all in one pan.
• Customizable spice level – easily adjust the heat to your liking.
• Perfect for meal prep – it reheats well, so you can double the batch for weekday lunches.

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu hits every note — sweet, salty, spicy, and umami — while delivering the ultimate crispy texture that everyone craves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this delicious tofu recipe:

• Tofu – Use firm or extra-firm tofu to keep its shape and hold the crispy coating.
• Kosher salt & black pepper – essential base seasoning for the tofu.
• Garlic powder – adds a mild garlic flavor to the coating.
• Cornstarch – the secret to that irresistible crispy shell.
• Neutral oil – avocado, canola, or vegetable oil are best for frying. Avoid olive oil or sesame oil, which can burn at high heat.
• Garlic – the star aromatic for the glaze.
• Honey – provides sweetness and a sticky texture that balances the spice.
• Gochujang – a Korean red chili paste that brings deep flavor, mild heat, and umami richness.
• Brown sugar – enhances the caramelized flavor of the sauce.
• Soy sauce – for salty depth; use low sodium if possible.
• Water – helps thin the glaze to the perfect consistency.

👉 Shortcut Option: Don’t feel like frying? You can make this recipe with Air Fryer Tofu for a lighter version that’s just as crispy!

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu

1. Season and Coat the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu and patting it completely dry with paper towels — this is crucial for crispiness. Cut it into 1-inch cubes, then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the cubes and toss gently until they’re evenly coated. Shake off any excess to avoid a thick, gummy coating.

2. Fry Until Crispy

Heat about ½ cup of neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, carefully add the tofu in a single layer and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until all sides are golden and crisp. Work in batches if needed, and transfer the cooked tofu to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.

3. Make the Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Glaze

In a clean pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the honey, gochujang, brown sugar, soy sauce, and hot water. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and can coat the back of a spoon.

Add the crispy tofu back to the pan and toss until every piece is covered in that shiny, sticky glaze. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped scallions for the perfect touch.

Key Tip: Choosing the Right Tofu

When it comes to tofu, not all types are created equal — and choosing the right one can make or break your dish.

• Soft (Silken) Tofu: Very delicate with a custard-like texture. Ideal for soups, desserts, or smoothies — not suitable for frying.
• Firm Tofu: Holds its shape well but still tender; perfect for simmered or saucy dishes like Mapo Tofu.
• Extra Firm Tofu: The best choice for this Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu. It has minimal water content, stays sturdy during frying, and delivers a meaty, satisfying texture.

💡 Pro Tip: To get maximum crispiness, press the tofu with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible before coating and frying.

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