This crispy teriyaki tofu is so good, even tofu skeptics will love it!
It’s golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in a sweet, sticky, and savory teriyaki sauce.
Perfect over rice, in a stir-fry, or even as a snack.
Plus, it’s easy to make and totally kid-approved!
What You’ll Need
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable oil)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
Pro Tips
✔ Press the tofu – The drier the tofu, the crispier it gets. Press it for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
✔ Cornstarch is the key – It helps the tofu crisp up perfectly when pan-fried.
✔ Use a hot pan – A hot pan with enough oil ensures the tofu gets golden brown instead of sticking.
✔ Adjust sweetness – Like it sweeter? Add more maple syrup! Prefer a little tang? Up the rice vinegar.
✔ Kid-friendly version – If your kids don’t like strong flavors, make a mild teriyaki sauce with less soy sauce and garlic.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board & knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons & cups
- A non-stick or cast-iron pan
- Tongs or a spatula
Substitutions & Variations
✅ No soy sauce? Try tamari (for gluten-free) or coconut aminos.
✅ No maple syrup? Use honey or brown sugar instead.
✅ Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
✅ Air fryer option? Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Press and cube the tofu ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
- The teriyaki sauce can be made in advance and kept in the fridge for up to a week.
How to Make Crispy Teriyaki Tofu
Step 1: Press and Cube the Tofu
Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.
Step 2: Coat the Tofu
In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Tofu
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).
Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. In a separate small dish, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Pour the teriyaki sauce into the pan with the tofu. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir gently. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the tofu. Serve hot over rice or veggies.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a pan over medium heat for the best texture. The microwave works, but the tofu won’t be as crispy.
- Freeze cooked tofu for up to a month, but the texture may change slightly.
Final Thoughts
This crispy teriyaki tofu is a total winner—easy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Try it, tweak it to your taste, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Would love to hear your thoughts or any fun variations you tried. Happy cooking! 🍽️💛