If you think tofu is bland, you just haven’t had it marinated right!
This marinated tofu is flavorful, slightly crispy on the outside, and packed with savory goodness.
It soaks up a simple, tasty marinade, making it perfect for rice bowls, stir-fries, salads, or even as a snack.
This recipe is super easy and kid-friendly—plus, it’s a great way to introduce tofu to picky eaters!
Just marinate, cook, and enjoy. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for crispy texture)
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking)
- Optional: 1 tsp sriracha or red pepper flakes (for spice)
- Garnish: Sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Tools:
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dish or zip-top bag (for marinating)
- Non-stick or cast-iron pan
- Tongs or spatula
Pro Tips
✔ Press the tofu! This removes excess water so it soaks up more marinade. A heavy book or tofu press works great.
✔ Longer marinating = more flavor. If you have time, marinate for a few hours or overnight.
✔ Cornstarch = crispiness. It helps the tofu get that golden crust when cooked.
✔ Use a non-stick or cast-iron pan. This keeps the tofu from sticking and helps it cook evenly.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to get that crispy texture.
How to Make Marinated Tofu
1. Press and Cube the Tofu
Drain the tofu and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place it between two plates with a heavy book or use a tofu press. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Then, cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha (if using).
3. Marinate the Tofu
Place the tofu cubes in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the tofu and gently toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
4. Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and gently toss to coat. This will help create a crispy texture when cooked.
5. Cook the Tofu
Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add neutral oil and place the tofu cubes in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
6. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the crispy tofu to a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve warm with rice, noodles, or veggies!
Substitutions & Variations
- Soy sauce → Tamari or coconut aminos (for gluten-free)
- Maple syrup → Honey or brown sugar
- Rice vinegar → Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Sesame oil → Olive oil (for a different flavor)
- Want it spicy? Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes!
Make-Ahead Tips
- Marinate the tofu ahead of time (up to overnight) for even more flavor.
- Press and cube the tofu in advance, so it’s ready to go when you need it.
- Cooked tofu stores well in the fridge for meal prep!
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a pan or air fryer to keep the crispiness (microwave will make it soft).
- Use leftovers in stir-fries, salads, or wraps!
Final Thoughts
This marinated tofu is easy, delicious, and perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re new to tofu or a longtime fan, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a shot, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Got questions? Drop them below—I’d love to help! 😊