This Spicy Crispy Tofu recipe delivers golden, crunchy tofu cubes tossed in a fiery, flavorful sauce that’s both savory and satisfying. It’s a plant-based dish that even meat lovers will crave—perfect as a main or a side, served over rice, noodles, or in wraps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a bold, protein-packed dish with a kick, this recipe is for you. It’s easy to prepare, completely vegan, and makes tofu taste incredibly good—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with flavor. You can adjust the spice level, pair it with different sides, and enjoy it fresh or reheated. Whether you’re meal-prepping or making a weeknight dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra-firm tofu
Cornstarch
Soy sauce
Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Garlic
Ginger
Brown sugar
Green onions (for garnish)
Vegetable oil (for frying)

directions

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
Toss tofu cubes with cornstarch to coat evenly.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry tofu until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
In a separate pan, combine soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer until slightly thickened.
Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and toss to coat well.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Sweeter Sauce: Add a little more brown sugar or a dash of maple syrup.
Extra Spicy: Add red chili flakes or increase the amount of sriracha.
Oven-Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake tofu cubes at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer Method: Cook tofu in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes for a healthier crisp.

storage/reheating

Store leftover spicy crispy tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, pan-fry on medium heat until warm and crispy again, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain the crispy texture.

FAQs

How do I get my tofu extra crispy?

Pressing the tofu well and coating it evenly with cornstarch is key. Make sure your pan and oil are hot before frying.

Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?

You can, but it might not get as crispy and may break apart more easily. Extra-firm tofu holds up best.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can store the sauce in the fridge for up to a week and reheat it before tossing with tofu.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, stir-fried veggies, or even in a wrap.

Can I freeze crispy tofu?

Freezing after cooking may cause texture changes. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

What oil is best for frying tofu?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the sriracha and add a bit more sugar to balance out the heat.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, bake the tofu instead of frying and then toss it in the sauce. It won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just be sure to fry tofu in batches so it gets evenly crispy.

Conclusion

Spicy Crispy Tofu is the ultimate quick, delicious, and versatile dish that brings plant-based cooking to life. With its bold flavor, satisfying crunch, and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re a tofu lover or a curious newcomer, this recipe is sure to impress.