Looking for a great vegetarian dinner? Pair these Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu Bites with jasmine rice and steamed vegetables, and you’ll be coming back for seconds. Make sure to buy extra-firm tofu for this recipe, so the bites will keep their shape. (Recipe adapted from XO&So.)
Ingredients:
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
- 4 tbsp. cornstarch, plus more if needed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp. sriracha
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 1 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tbsp. rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp. coconut oil, for frying
- Optional garnishes: 1 tbsp. sesame seeds, 1 tsp. sesame oil, scallions
Directions:
- To prepare the tofu: Fold a few paper towels into a square and place on a plate. Place block of tofu on top of the paper towels. Fold another paper towel and place on top of the tofu. Place a cast-iron pan, a plate, or a cutting board on top of the tofu. If using a plate or cutting board, add a couple of cans or a somewhat heavy bowl to increase pressure on the tofu. The goal is to press out the excess moisture without crushing the tofu. Let tofu rest for at least 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine garlic, sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Set aside.
- Cut pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss with cornstarch until they are lightly coated on each side.
- In a large pan, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the tofu cubes. Fry for five minutes per side, until golden and crispy all over. Make sure to turn the cubes gently so they don’t fall apart.
- Turn the heat off and let the pan cool for a minute or two. Then, add the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat all of the tofu with the sauce and let sit for three minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through.
- Remove from heat and serve over rice, or on its own! Top with garnishes, if desired.
