Description

This Teriyaki Tofu recipe offers a flavorful and protein-packed plant-based dish with crispy tofu cubes glazed in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the tofu is marinated, pan-fried until golden and crisp, then coated in a thick, savory-sweet sauce made from low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, it pairs wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu Marinade and Cooking

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

Season tofu: Place the cubed 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 coat all tofu cubes evenly with the marinade mixture.
Cook tofu: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides become golden brown and crisp.
Simmer sauce: While the tofu cooks, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Glaze tofu: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce into the skillet with the tofu. Toss gently to coat all tofu pieces evenly. Heat for an additional 2 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavorful sauce.
Garnish: Transfer the glazed tofu to a serving dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve warm, ideally over steamed rice or alongside your favorite steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Notes

Pressing the tofu well before marinating helps achieve a crispier texture.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
Serve with steamed rice or noodles and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Japanese

Keywords: Teriyaki tofu, vegetarian tofu recipe, Asian tofu dish, crispy tofu, homemade teriyaki sauce, plant-based protein