Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
crispy sweet chili tofu - featured image

Crispy Sweet Chili Tofu


  • Author: Lilya
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A simple and delicious vegan recipe featuring crispy tofu coated in a sticky, sweet chili sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes with just five ingredients, it’s perfect for quick meals or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400g) extra firm tofu
  • 3 tablespoons (24g) cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce (low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free)
  • Optional: toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Place tofu cubes in a large bowl and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated, shaking off excess.
  3. Heat oil in a 10-12 inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Add tofu cubes in a single layer without overcrowding and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Work in batches if needed.
  5. While frying the last batch, mix sweet chili sauce and soy sauce in a small bowl.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low, pour sauce mixture over tofu in the skillet, and toss gently to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to tofu.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.

Notes

Press tofu well to ensure crispiness. Use cornstarch instead of flour for a lighter crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness. Toss tofu in sauce just before serving to keep it crispy. Reheat leftovers in a skillet or air fryer to restore crunch.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
  • Calories: 280
  • Sodium: 600
  • Fat: 16
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5
  • Carbohydrates: 18
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 16

Keywords: crispy tofu, sweet chili tofu, vegan tofu recipe, easy tofu recipe, gluten-free tofu, quick vegan meal