Brown Sugar Glazed Tofu – Sweet & Savory Crispy Tofu Recipe

Your Friendly Guide to Tofu Glazed with Brown Sugar

Hello, friend! Are you ready to dive into a recipe that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor? I’ve got just the dish for you: crispy tofu coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a favorite in your household—whether you’re a tofu lover or just looking to explore something new in your cooking repertoire!

Nutritional Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is an amazing ingredient! It’s packed with protein and low in calories, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. Plus, it’s loaded with calcium and iron, which are great for bone and blood health! When you pair tofu with a delicious glaze, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also giving your body some good nutrition. And if you love the idea of incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet, tofu is a perfect option.

Adaptable Variations

• Switch up the Sweetener: If you want to reduce sugar, try using agave or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. It offers a slightly different flavor but still tastes delicious!
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add more heat by increasing the red chili flakes or adding a dash of sriracha to the glaze.
• Herb Infusion: Want a fresh twist? Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil with the glaze for a burst of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this dish!
• Veggie Pairings: Serve it with steamed veggie sides like broccoli or snap peas to add more nutrients and color!

Crispy Tofu with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) firm or extra firm tofu
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating tofu)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for acidity)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)
• Pinch of black pepper or red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh leafy greens or herbs (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Start by draining and pressing the tofu for at least 20 minutes to squeeze out excess moisture. This step is super important for getting that nice crispy texture!
2. Once pressed, slice the tofu into rectangular slabs about 1 inch thick. They don’t have to be perfect, but uniformity helps with cooking.
3. Now, lightly toss the tofu pieces in cornstarch. This ensures an even coating, which results in deliciously crispy edges when fried!
4. Heat up the vegetable oil in a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Carefully lay the tofu pieces in the skillet, frying each side until they’re golden brown and crispy; about 3-4 minutes each side. Once done, set the tofu aside.
5. In a small saucepan, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and if you fancy it, rice vinegar and sesame oil. Heat this over medium-low and stir it until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens to a glaze consistency; it’s like magic watching it come together!
6. Next, return the fried tofu to the pan, gently coating each piece in the yummy brown sugar glaze. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let that glaze caramelize and stick to the tofu, turning occasionally to cover all sides.
7. Once finished, carefully remove the tofu from the pan and arrange it on a serving platter.
8. Garnish with fresh leafy greens or herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Serve immediately while it’s warm, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides!

Practical Tips

• Want an easier cleanup? Line your baking sheet with parchment paper before frying the tofu.
• If you’re making this for a crowd, feel free to double the recipe! Just make sure to fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them gently in a pan or microwave to keep them crispy!

Equipment Needed

Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

• A cutting board and knife for slicing the tofu
• A bowl for tossing the tofu in cornstarch
• A non-stick or cast iron skillet for frying
• A small saucepan for making the glaze
• A spatula to help flip the tofu
• A serving platter for your beautiful glazed tofu

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use soft tofu instead? While you can, it tends to fall apart easily. Firm or extra firm tofu gives the best results for frying!
2. What if I don’t have rice vinegar? No worries! You can omit it or substitute with apple cider vinegar for a similar tang.
3. How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within a couple of days!
4. Can I use a different oil for frying? Sure! Feel free to use any neutral oil such as canola or sunflower oil.
5. What should I serve with this dish? It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies for a light meal!

I can’t wait to hear how your crispy tofu with brown sugar glaze turns out! Please share your experience with me, and if you loved it, why not save it on Pinterest for later? Happy cooking!