Print

Teriyaki Tofu Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 71 reviews

This Teriyaki Tofu recipe features crispy, golden cubes of extra-firm tofu coated in a flavorful, homemade teriyaki sauce. The tofu is marinated, pan-fried until crisp, and then glazed with a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish is perfect for a quick, healthy, and delicious plant-based meal served over rice or vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu Preparation

  • 1 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu (pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 tablespoon high-heat oil (such as avocado or canola oil)
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (for marinating)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Teriyaki Sauce

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (for sauce)
  • 1/3 cup water (for sauce)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Season tofu: Place the cubed extra-firm tofu in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of high-heat oil, 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Toss gently to evenly coat the tofu cubes with the marinade and seasonings.
  2. Cook tofu: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until each side is golden brown and crispy.
  3. Simmer sauce: While the tofu cooks, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Thicken sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Continue stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
  5. Glaze tofu: Reduce the heat on the skillet to low. Add the thickened teriyaki sauce to the skillet and gently toss the tofu cubes to coat them thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors and heat through.
  6. Garnish and serve: Transfer the glazed tofu to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve warm over steamed rice or alongside your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu thoroughly before cooking helps achieve a crispier texture.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the tofu from sticking and breaking apart.
  • Adjust brown sugar quantity to control sweetness level of the sauce.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or stir-fried vegetables.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.

Keywords: teriyaki tofu, crispy tofu, vegan teriyaki, plant-based main dish, easy tofu recipe, skillet tofu, homemade teriyaki sauce