In just a few simple steps and about 15 minutes, you can learn how to fry tofu in a pan that is crispy, golden and delicious.
Tofu is more accessible than ever before. This soy-based protein has exploded in popularity thanks to its unique texture, adaptable flavor, and vegetarian-friendliness.
Crispy on the outside (without using cornstarch) and soft on the inside, fried tofu tastes great dipped in sauce or as an addition to salads, rice bowls or stir-fries (like in my kimchi tofu stir fry). I also use it in Korean tofu kimchi soup. It's like a blank palette for sauces like the simple but flavorful honey-soy sauce we are making here.
Since fried tofu can be incorporated into many different meals, just as you would fried chicken, this is definitely a recipe to keep close at hand and I hope you enjoy it.
With 5 ingredients and four easy steps, you will have delicious, crispy, golden tofu that's ready to eat.
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Ingredients
Prepare all of these ingredients before starting to cook:
- tofu - Firm or extra firm (I prefer extra firm for stir frying so that it's less likely to crumble).
- soy sauce - Soy sauce comes in two main types: light and dark. Light soy sauce is saltier with a thinner consistency, while dark soy sauce is aged longer, resulting in a slightly thicker texture and a more robust, sweet flavor. I use light in this recipe as it is ideal for a marinade and great for adding flavor to stir fries.
- sesame oil - Be sure to pick up toasted sesame oil which is dark golden-brown in color.
- black and white sesame seeds - To garnish and add a bit more crunch.
*Check recipe card for full ingredient amounts.
👩🏻🍳 Chef's Note: For an extra but optional step, you can reduce the moisture in the tofu brick to make it crispier and better able to absorb the marinade. Head here for tofu pressing steps.
Steps For How to Fry Tofu
Step #1. Cut the Tofu. Drain the tofu block and pat it dry. Slice it into cubes and insert them onto wooden skewers.
Step #2. Coat the Tofu with Sauce. Mix the soy sauce and honey together in a small bowl. Coat the tofu pieces with the sauce/tofu marinade using a pastry brush.
Step #3. Fry the Tofu. Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu skewers, rotating until the tofu is golden brown on every side.
Step #4. Serve. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve with rice and vegetables if desired. Serve the pan-fried tofu as a main dish or side.
Top Pro Tips
- Make sure to use firm or extra-firm tofu and have the pan nice and hot in order to achieve a golden, crispy crust with a more solid texture.
- After placing the tofu cubes in the pan, resist the urge to touch them for a few minutes to allow a golden crust to form.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Any leftover cooked tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thaw: Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave, oven or pan.
FAQs for How to Fry Tofu in a Pan
Before frying tofu in most recipes, make sure to drain it well and pat it dry. This does help with flavor and crispiness because wet tofu doesn't soak up marinades or spices properly and can cause splattering in the pan.
Frying tofu in hot oil gives it a delightful crispy outer layer, a rich flavor, and a beautiful golden hue to each piece.
This isn't a necessary step, but if you want to give the tofu more time to soak up the flavors of the marinade, you can marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Opt for a non-stick pan when cooking tofu to prevent sticking. Ensure the pan is coated with oil for better results.
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📋Recipe
How to Fry Crispy Tofu
Ingredients
- 14 ounces tofu - firm or extra firm - 1 package
- ¼ cup soy sauce - I use light
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¼ cup toasted sesame oil
- black and white sesame seeds - to garnish
Instructions
- Drain the tofu block and pat it dry. Slice it into cubes and insert them onto wooden skewers.14 ounces tofu
- Mix the soy sauce and honey together in a small bowl. Coat the tofu pieces with the sauce using a pastry brush.¼ cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey
- Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu skewers, rotating until the tofu is golden brown on every side.¼ cup toasted sesame oil
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.
Equipment
Notes
- Top Tip: Make sure to use firm or extra-firm tofu and have the pan nice and hot in order to achieve a golden, crispy crust with a more solid texture.
- Fridge Storage: Any leftover cooked tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer Storage: It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To Thaw: Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave, oven or pan.
- For Extra Crispy Tofu: For an extra but optional step, you can reduce the moisture in the tofu brick to make it crispier and better able to absorb the marinade. Head here for tofu pressing steps.
Nutrition
Nutrition information on In the Kitch is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It may not include toppings and/or sauces.
Joss says
I love serving this tofu when I need a vegetarian option. The marinade is flavorful and the tofu comes out nice and golden!