Sweet Fried Tofu

Crispy Glazed Tofu – Simple, Vegan-Friendly & So Satisfying

Here’s a go-to tofu recipe that’s crispy, savory, slightly sweet, and takes less than 20 minutes to make.
Perfect for busy weeknights, plant-based meal prep, or impressing your non-vegan friends!

Whether you’re fully vegan, trying to eat more plant-based meals, or just love tofu, this crispy glazed tofu recipe is for you. It’s one of those rare weeknight-friendly meals that delivers on texture, taste, and versatility - without demanding a long list of ingredients or complex steps.

In fact, this recipe uses just five pantry staples, making it an excellent easy tofu dinner idea or easy vegan food for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.

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Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu
• 2 tbsp potato starch (or cornstarch)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or sugar (use sugar for a fully vegan version)

(Optional)

• Sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish

These ingredients may seem humble, but they create something magical together. The firm tofu gives this dish structure and bite, while the soy sauce and honey or sugar create a sticky glaze that clings to the crispy surface like a dream. For vegan, use sugar.

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How to Make It

1. Press the Tofu

Wrap the tofu block in a clean towel and place a heavy pan or book on top. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Why press tofu? Removing water helps tofu crisp up better and improves texture. It also allows the glaze to stick more effectively, giving you that perfect savory coating.

2. Slice Into Cubes

After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly. About 1-inch cubes work well for this recipe.

3. Coat in Potato Starch

Lightly toss the tofu cubes in potato starch or cornstarch until evenly coated. This simple step is what transforms soft tofu into golden, crispy bites.

Tip: Don’t skip the starch! It’s the secret to getting that delicious crunchy outside while the inside stays soft.

4. Fry Until Golden

Heat a bit of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally. This usually takes about 7–10 minutes total.

Try not to move the tofu around too much early on—let each side develop a crust before flipping.

5. Glaze and Serve

Lower the heat. Add 2 tbsp soy sauce and 2 tbsp honey or sugar directly into the pan. Stir gently so the sauce coats all the tofu pieces evenly and starts to thicken slightly into a sticky glaze.

Note for vegans: Use sugar instead of honey to keep the dish 100% plant-based.

Once everything is coated and glossy, you’re done!

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Serving Ideas

This crispy glazed tofu is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to turn it into a satisfying meal:

• Serve over steamed rice or quinoa – Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.

• Make a tofu bowl – Pair with sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy and a base of rice or noodles.

• Stuff into a wrap – Use warm flatbread, shredded cabbage, and a dollop of vegan mayo or chili sauce for a spicy tofu wrap.

• Top a salad – Add protein and crunch to your favorite leafy greens or grain salads.

However you enjoy it, this tofu is sure to satisfy - even for those who claim they “don’t like tofu.”

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Tofu Recipe

• Crispy outside, soft inside – The starch coating delivers a serious crunch without deep frying.
• Sticky-sweet umami glaze – Just soy sauce and honey (or sugar), but deeply flavorful.
• Fast and easy – Minimal prep and cooking time make it a weeknight winner.
• Budget-friendly – All ingredients are affordable and easy to find.
• Completely customizable – You can tweak the flavor profile with spices, citrus, or heat.

This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again - especially when you’re craving something comforting but healthy.

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Tips

Use firm or extra-firm tofu – Silken tofu won’t work here. You want structure and chew.

Be patient while frying – Let the tofu sit in the pan undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side so it crisps up well before flipping.

Want it spicy? Add a splash of gochujang, sriracha, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.

Double the sauce – Love extra glaze? Double the soy sauce and sweetener for a more saucy dish.

Air fryer method: You can also cook the tofu cubes in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway. Then toss in the glaze on the stovetop for an even healthier version.

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A Plant-Based Protein Powerhouse

If you’re trying to add more plant-based protein to your diet, tofu is a fantastic option. It’s packed with iron, calcium (especially if you buy calcium-set tofu), and high-quality protein, making it an excellent meat substitute in both flavor and nutrition.

This vegan tofu dinner recipe is ideal for meal prep too. The tofu stays flavorful even when reheated, and you can pack it with rice and greens for an easy lunch box option.

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Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can adapt to your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

• Garlic-lovers – Add minced garlic while cooking the glaze.
• Zesty twist – Stir in a splash of lemon or orange juice for brightness.
• Sesame-forward – Add a dash of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for nutty depth.
• Asian-inspired fusion – Try adding mirin, rice vinegar, or a bit of hoisin sauce to play with the sweet/sour/savory balance.

This is a great base recipe to riff off of as you build confidence cooking with tofu and plant-based ingredients.

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Final Thoughts

Tofu doesn’t need to be bland or boring. With just a few pantry ingredients and a solid technique, you can turn it into something crave-worthy and deeply satisfying. This crispy glazed tofu recipe is a shining example of how simple, wholesome food can be comforting, flavorful, and fun to eat.

It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget you’re eating healthy - crispy, sticky, salty-sweet perfection in every bite.

Try it once, and you’ll see why this dish is a staple in so many plant-based kitchens. Even non-vegans will be asking for seconds!