Get ready to transform ordinary tofu into an extraordinary culinary experience that will make even meat-lovers swoon! These crispy, golden-brown tofu bites are about to revolutionize your dinner routine with their perfect balance of sweet, savory, and irresistibly crunchy texture. Imagine biting into a piece of tofu so crisp and flavorful that you'll forget you're eating a plant-based protein – this recipe is your ticket to becoming a tofu-cooking superstar!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Begin by pressing the tofu. Wrap the block of firm tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like a cast-iron skillet) to remove excess moisture. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (approximately 1-inch pieces). This will help them cook evenly and become crispy.
- In a mixing bowl, add the cornstarch. Toss the cubed tofu in the cornstarch until all pieces are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture when baked.
- In another bowl, prepare the honey garlic sauce. Combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Place the cornstarch-coated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. This will allow for even cooking and crispiness.
- Drizzle half of the honey garlic sauce over the tofu cubes, making sure to coat them evenly. Use a spatula to gently toss the tofu, ensuring all pieces are well covered.
- Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown.
- After 20 minutes, remove the tofu from the oven and drizzle the remaining honey garlic sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat.
- Return the tofu to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce and enhance the flavors.
- Once done, remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it firm up slightly and become even crispier.
- To serve, transfer the crispy honey garlic tofu bites to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy your delicious crispy oven baked honey garlic tofu bites as a main dish or appetizer!
Tips
- Pressing is Crucial: Always press your tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This is the secret to achieving that coveted crispy exterior.
- Cornstarch is Your Best Friend: The cornstarch coating creates a magical crispy layer that transforms ordinary tofu into a crunchy delight.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each tofu cube space to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Sauce Timing Matters: Drizzle sauce in stages to prevent soggy tofu and create a beautiful caramelized finish.
- Let it Rest: Allow the tofu to cool for a few minutes after baking to help it firm up and become even crispier.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to adjust the honey-to-soy sauce ratio to suit your taste preferences.
- Garnish Generously: The sesame seeds and green onions aren't just for looks – they add texture and extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
