Truly Crispy Pan Fried Tofu

My perfectly seasoned pan fried tofu is a quick and healthy way to cook this plant-based protein! It's ready in minutes and so easy to customize. Watch the video below to see how I make it in my kitchen!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings servings

Calories 121kcal

Author Arman Liew

Ingredients

14 ounces firm tofu sliced into 1 cm slices
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

Slice the tofu into 1/4-inch slices or 1/4-inch cubes. Place them on a paper towel to soak up excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, add the soy sauce.
Place a large, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil. Moving quickly, dip the tofu in the spice mix, then a quick dip in the soy sauce. Add it to the hot pan and fry for 2 minutes, flip, and cook for another 2 minutes.
Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve.

Video

Notes

TO STORE: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

TO FREEZE: Freeze the tofu in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

TO REHEAT: Reheat leftovers in a lightly oiled pan over medium-high heat until warm.

Variations

Substitute with smoked tofu. If you can find smoked tofu, go ahead and use that. If you want that smokey flavor but can’t find it, add 1 teaspoon of smoke flavor to the soy sauce.

Add corn starch. I didn’t find this necessary, but if you want to guarantee extra crispy tofu, mix in ½ tablespoon of cornstarch into the seasoning mix.

Garnish ideas. Top the tofu with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for color and flavor.

Nutrition