Best Tofu Recipes (From Easy Eats To Epic Feasts!)

Tofu doesn’t need to be complicated to be amazing. These best tofu recipes prove that whether you want something crispy, savory, or just downright satisfying, this plant-based powerhouse always has your back!

Tofu has an amazing ability to blend into whatever dish you’re making, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. Far from it. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy for weeknights or a dish that’ll steal the spotlight at a dinner party, these are some of the best tofu recipes from around the globe, from some of the top plant-based bloggers out there.

Here’s the thing: tofu is like a sponge (in the best way possible). It soaks up flavor and changes texture depending on how you treat it. Press it for crispy edges, freeze it for a chewier bite—these recipes will show you how to cook tofu as well as all the little tricks that transform it into something truly crave-worthy.

You’ll find recipes from every corner of the world, from savory stir-fries to creamy curries, each one designed to bring out the best in this plant-based powerhouse. Whether you’re new to tofu or it’s already a regular on your menu, these dishes are here to make sure tofu can reach its full potential and truly shine.

Tofu Tips Ahead!

After you browse this collection of tofu recipes, be sure to stick around at the end for expert tips and tricks that will take your next tofu dish to the next level. With tofu, it’s all about little tweaks that make big flavors and textures shine. Ready for the recipes? Let’s dive in and see what tofu can really do.

Easy Tofu Recipes

When it comes to cooking tofu, sometimes simplicity is the key to unlocking its full potential. That’s where these easy tofu recipes come in—they’re perfect for those nights when you want a wholesome, plant-based meal without the fuss. Whether you’re a tofu newbie or a seasoned pro, these dishes hit that sweet spot between minimal effort and maximum flavor. With a crispy bite here, and a savory glaze there, these recipes show you just how versatile tofu can be.

From crispy breaded tofu that delivers all the crunch without the deep fry, to spicy glazed tofu paired with tender bok choy, there’s something here for everyone. These recipes are designed for ease, but they don’t sacrifice flavor. Each dish is packed with vibrant ingredients and textures, and the best part? They’re ready in no time, leaving you with more minutes to savor every bite. So if you’re looking for some of the best tofu recipes to add to your weekly rotation, you’ve found them—easy, tasty, and perfect for any night of the week.

Crispy Breaded Tofu

If you’ve ever wondered how to make tofu the crispy star of your meal, this breaded tofu recipe is your new best friend. Think golden, crunchy goodness on the outside with a perfectly tender interior. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but customizable enough to fit any craving—whether you’re going for a spicy kick or something more classic. Plus, the panko coating brings that satisfying crunch you didn’t know tofu was capable of, making it one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.

Spicy Glazed Tofu with Bok Choy

This sambal tofu recipe combines bold flavors and quick cooking techniques to create a dish that’s spicy, savory, and completely satisfying. The tofu is marinated in sambal, ginger, and sesame oil, then seared to perfection in a hot cast iron pan, creating a caramelized outer layer with a rich, thick sauce.

Paired with crispy air-fried bok choy, this dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal and one of the best tofu recipes! Whether you serve it with rice or noodles, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy tofu with an Asian-inspired twist.

Quick and Easy Carrot Ginger Tofu

This quick and easy Asian tofu recipe is all about balance—savory, sweet, and a little spicy. The ginger-carrot glaze brings warmth and brightness to the crispy tofu, making it the perfect meal for weeknights when you need something both flavorful and simple. The best part? You can easily serve it over noodles or rice for a satisfying dish that hits all the right notes of comfort and excitement, with minimal effort.

Easy Sesame-Glazed Tofu

This quick and flavorful sesame-glazed tofu is your go-to weeknight meal when you want something easy yet packed with flavor. With a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy glaze, it brings a perfect balance of textures, as crispy tofu meets a luscious sauce. Toss it over noodles or rice for a comforting dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your tofu rotation.

Tofu Stir-Fry With Vegetables

This pan-fried tofu stir-fry brings together the comforting, familiar flavors of Chinese takeout with a wholesome vegan twist. The shredded tofu adds a soft, egg-like texture, absorbing the savory, umami-rich marinade beautifully. Paired with roasted broccoli and crispy shiitake mushrooms, the dish is layered with flavors that balance perfectly between sweet, tangy, and salty.

Tofu Sandwich

This baked tofu sandwich by Amy at Veggies Save the Day is a fantastic go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. With its tangy balsamic and dijon mustard marinade, the tofu slices bake up with a savory, deli-style flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, the slices can be served warm or cold, making them incredibly versatile for a light lunch or a filling dinner.

Best of all, the tofu is oil-free and ready in just 30 minutes, so you can enjoy this easy vegan sandwich without the hassle! Serve it with your favorite toppings and bread for a fresh and healthy take on classic deli fare. If you’re looking for a plant-based sandwich that’s both delicious and quick, this baked tofu sandwich will definitely hit the spot!

Soup Recipes with Tofu

If you’re craving something comforting, hearty, and full of flavor, look no further than this selection of soup recipes with tofu. From spicy Korean broths to creamy coconut-based bowls, these tofu soups offer a warm, satisfying meal that can easily become part of your regular cooking routine. Tofu, with its ability to soak up flavors while adding texture and protein, shines as the star of these dishes, offering both familiar and adventurous options. Whether you’re new to tofu or a longtime fan, these soups show just how versatile and comforting this plant-based protein can be.

Each recipe offers something unique, whether it’s the fiery punch of gochugaru in Korean tofu soup or the delicate balance of flavors in a simple miso broth. You’ll find a range of textures and flavor profiles, from the rich and creamy to the light and tangy, making these the best tofu recipes for anyone looking to add more plant-based goodness to their meals. So grab your favorite bowl and spoon, because these tofu soups are here to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger!

Easy Vegan Ramen

This easy vegan ramen with tofu and shiitake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines chewy noodles, a rich broth, and golden tofu cubes to create the perfect weeknight meal. The earthy shiitake mushrooms and tender baby bok choy bring balance to the rich, savory broth, making this ramen both hearty and satisfying.

The key is in the layered flavors of sautéed onion, garlic, and ginger, combined with a rich broth that’s simmered and strained for a silky finish. Whether you’re cozying up after a long day or looking for a quick and wholesome meal, this vegan ramen is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Miso Soup With Tofu

This vegan miso soup with dashi and tofu is the perfect blend of simplicity and depth, offering rich umami flavor in every bowl. The vegan dashi, made from kombu and shiitake mushrooms, creates a savory, earthy base that feels comforting and wholesome.

Whether you enjoy it with noodles, sautéed veggies, or tender tofu cubes, this soup strikes a balance between nourishing and deeply flavorful. Add miso, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil at the end to elevate the taste without compromising the nutrients. Ideal for a cozy meal, it’s versatile enough to be a light snack or a more substantial dish depending on your choice of add-ins.

Korean Tofu Soup

This sundubu jigae from Chef Adam Sobel at Cinnamon Snail captures the essence of a classic Korean tofu soup, made entirely plant-based. The flavorful broth, infused with sesame oil, gochugaru, and vegan-friendly kimchi, balances spice with umami richness.

Tender mushrooms and silky soft tofu add a perfect contrast in texture, making every spoonful a comforting experience. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned fan, this soup promises to warm you from the inside out—ideal for those chilly nights when you need a bowl of comfort that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Tofu Tom Yum

This tofu tom yum by Ellanor at Oh My Veg! takes the classic Thai soup and makes it vegan-friendly, offering the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. With a rich broth filled with lemongrass, galangal, and fresh lime juice, it’s a light and flavorful option for warm days.

The crispy tofu adds protein and texture, while the vermicelli noodles make it a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving bold Thai flavors or just looking for a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe hits the spot while being adaptable to various dietary needs.

Vegan Tonkotsu Ramen

This vegan tonkotsu ramen by Thomas at Gastroplant brings you a deeply flavorful bowl of ramen that’s perfect for a weekend project. The plant-based broth gets its rich and creamy texture from sesame cashew cream, giving you that traditional tonkotsu thickness without the pork.

Topped with chewy ramen noodles, earthy shiitake and enoki mushrooms, crispy roasted taro root, and tangy bamboo shoots, each bite is a harmony of textures and umami-packed goodness. The combination of flavors—savory, nutty, and slightly sweet—makes this ramen a satisfying and comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Spicy Thai Vegan Ramen

Lauren’s vegan spicy Thai peanut ramen over at Rabbit & Wolves is a bold and flavorful dish that strikes a balance between spicy, nutty, sweet, and salty. The broth is rich and comforting, with a base of peanut butter, coconut milk, ginger, and green curry paste, which comes together in under 30 minutes.

It’s perfect for cozy nights and a versatile option where you can throw in any veggies or toppings you have on hand. Add in tofu and mushrooms and enjoy the dynamic flavors and creamy broth that will quickly make this a weeknight favorite.

Colorful Vegan Ramen

Elena’s vegan ramen with rice noodles, tofu, and vegetables is a delicious, plant-based take on a classic Japanese dish. This recipe over at Happy Kitchen features a rich and flavorful shiitake miso broth, with layers of umami from ingredients like kombu, ginger, and garlic. Pan-fried tofu adds protein, while sautéed vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, and spinach create a colorful, nutrient-packed bowl. The dish is completely gluten-free, thanks to the use of rice noodles and tamari. It’s a comforting, healthy meal perfect for any busy weeknight or cozy weekend dinner!

Enjoy a bowl that’s simple to prepare and customizable with various toppings like scallions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes for an extra kick!

Creamy Thai Tofu Soup

This fragrant coconut tofu soup is a quick and simple dish that balances rich coconut milk with savory shallots, shiitake mushrooms, and tangy lime juice. This soup is an adaptation of Tom Kha Gai, but it’s a bit more minimalist, leaving out more complex ingredients like lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves while still delivering an aromatic, creamy broth. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s easy to make, and you can top it off with tofu cubes, chili, and cilantro for a perfect comforting meal.

Tofu Dinner Ideas

When it comes to dinner ideas that highlight tofu, the possibilities are endless. This section features satisfying tofu-based dinners that are perfect for any night of the week, whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy, or hearty. Tofu’s versatility shines in these recipes, offering flavors and textures that even the most die-hard tofu skeptics will appreciate. From crispy katsu to saucy Szechuan stir-fries, these dishes prove tofu can be the star of any meal.

The best part about these recipes is that they’re not just delicious but also easy to make, with most taking under an hour from prep to plate. Whether you’re indulging in a bold curry, a tangy sandwich, or a spicy noodle bowl, these dinner ideas will keep your weeknight dinners exciting and full of flavor. Get ready to explore the best tofu recipes for satisfying, plant-based meals that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Fire Noodles with Crispy Tofu

This delicious noodles dish is one of the best tofu recipes and is a perfect choice for those who love a spicy kick with a savory, creamy twist. Combining crispy panko-coated tofu with fiery sambal and coconut milk sauce, it offers a balanced blend of heat, nuttiness from peanut butter, and richness from coconut milk. Thai chili peppers add an optional punch, making the dish customizable to your spice level.

Topped with fresh scallions, crunchy peanuts, and served with sautéed vegetables, this dish is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, ready in just 45 minutes.

Vegan Mapo Tofu With Shiitake Mushrooms

This vegan mapo tofu recipe is a plant-based take on the classic Sichuan dish, using minced shiitake mushrooms to replicate the texture of pork, while maintaining the traditional spicy and numbing flavors that make the dish so beloved.

The tofu is braised in a fragrant sauce made with Doubanjiang (a key fermented chili bean paste) and Sichuan peppercorns, creating a savory, umami-packed experience. The soft tofu soaks up all the flavors while providing a perfect contrast to the bold, spicy sauce. It’s an easy dish to whip up in under 45 minutes and is best served over a bed of rice.

If you’re a fan of bold, fiery flavors and want a vegan alternative that still captures the essence of traditional mapo tofu, this recipe may become one of your new go-to vegan comfort food dishes.

Vegan Tofu Potstickers with Crispy Dumpling Skirt

This tofu dumpling recipe Ellanor over at Oh My Veg! are a perfect go-to when you’re craving a perfect bite-sized treat with a satisfying texture. The dumplings have a juicy, savory filling encased in chewy wrappers and fried to golden perfection with a crispy bottom.

The star of this recipe is the crispy dumpling skirt—a lacy, crunchy layer that adds an extra dimension of texture to each bite. The filling, made of grated tofu, cabbage, and aromatic ingredients like garlic and ginger, is subtle in flavor, letting the umami-rich dipping sauce steal the spotlight. Whether you’re vegan or just a fan of potstickers, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Tofu Katsu Curry

This crispy tofu katsu with Japanese curry sauce recipe by Melissa over at Vegan Huggs brings together a crunchy, golden tofu cutlet with a rich, mildly spiced Japanese curry sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal at home, the dish is a vegan version of the classic Japanese katsukarē, where tofu replaces the traditional meat cutlet.

The flavorful curry sauce, which is made from sautéed onions, ginger, garlic, and coconut milk, complements the crispy tofu perfectly, and the whole dish comes together in just about 40 minutes. Serve it over steamed rice and garnish with fresh greens for a well-balanced, satisfying dinner.

Szechuan Tofu

This crispy Szechuan tofu stir-fry by The Conscious Plant Kitchen is a fiery and satisfying dish, perfect for lovers of bold and spicy flavors. With crispy cubes of tofu coated in a sticky, garlicky Szechuan sauce infused with Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and chili flakes, it’s a must for a quick weeknight dinner.

The sauce strikes a balance between heat, sweetness from maple syrup, and umami from tamari or soy sauce. Serve it over rice or noodles, and top with scallions and sesame seeds for an extra punch. It’s a straightforward recipe that you can have ready in just about 20 minutes, offering an easy way to satisfy your craving for Chinese takeout at home.

Sweet and Sour Tofu

This sweet and sticky cashew tofu dish combines well-seared tofu with crisp vegetables and a deliciously sweet, savory sauce that clings to each bite thanks to a cornstarch slurry added at the end of cooking. It’s an easy, flavorful recipe that mimics the flavors of Chinese takeout but can be made in the comfort of your kitchen. The dish is packed with umami from ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil, while the cashews add a satisfying crunch.

Serve it with rice or noodles, and top it off with sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Grilled Sambal Oelek Tofu with Peanut Sauce

These spicy tofu cubes with sambal oelek and peanut butter sauce combine crispy, pan-fried tofu with a fiery, flavorful chili sauce. The tofu is coated in sambal oelek—a chunky Indonesian hot sauce that delivers a slow-building heat—and is balanced by a rich, creamy peanut butter sauce. The combination of sweet mirin, umami-rich soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil creates a perfectly savory peanut sauce to dip the tofu cubes into.

This dish is simple yet packs a bold punch, making it ideal for anyone who loves spicy food with a unique flavor profile. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and sliced scallions to add texture and extra flavor! Serve these tofu cubes with rice, noodles, or as a protein-packed appetizer.

Five Spice Tofu

This Chinese Five Spice tofu recipe features crispy tofu in a rich, fragrant black bean garlic sauce enhanced by the distinctive taste of Chinese five-spice powder. Combining the deep, umami flavors of black bean sauce with the aromatic notes of star anise, cloves, and Sichuan peppercorns, this dish creates a bold and savory flavor profile. The tofu is caramelized to perfection, making it crispy on the outside while absorbing the luscious sauce, resulting in a perfect blend of textures.

Served over rice or noodles and complemented by mushrooms and greens, this dish is a perfect comfort meal that’s both vegan and packed with flavor.

Vegan Korma

This easy creamy tofu korma by Jess & Dan over at Vegan Punks is a vegan take on the popular British curry house dish. It’s a mild, creamy curry made with tofu, cashews, coconut cream, and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The cashews and coconut cream combine to create a rich, indulgent sauce that rivals any traditional korma. You can also add veggies like cauliflower, peas, or courgettes to bulk up the dish and to create a comforting, flavorful meal.

Vegan Banh Mi With Tofu

This Vietnamese tofu sandwich is a fresh take on the classic version, featuring marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, and a spicy vegan mayo. The tofu is marinated in mirin, vegan fish sauce, lime, and garlic, then seared to perfection. It’s paired with lightly pickled carrots, cucumbers, and celery, all stuffed into a crispy baguette spread with sambal-infused mayo. Topped with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and scallions, this sandwich is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors, and one of the best tofu recipes for any season.

Za’atar Tofu

This za’atar tofu recipe is a flavorful, Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines pressed tofu with the bold, tangy, and herbaceous notes of za’atar spice. The tofu is marinated in a mix of za’atar and olive oil for at least two hours (or overnight for deeper flavor). It’s then seared, grilled, or baked and served with roasted vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and tomatoes. To enhance the flavor further, a roasted garlic and tahini sauce adds a creamy, nutty touch.

This dish is perfect for when you’re craving something both wholesome and fragrant, with za’atar providing a lovely earthy and lemony tang, balanced by the richness of the olive oil and tahini.

Healthy Recipes with Tofu

When it comes to healthy tofu recipes, it’s all about packing a nutritious punch without skimping on flavor. This section is filled with creative and delicious ways to enjoy tofu, making it a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. From crispy taco bowls to smoky tofu salads, these recipes show just how versatile tofu can be. They’re designed to be light yet satisfying, making them perfect for any time of day, whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or preparing a hearty dinner.

Each of these recipes is filled with fresh ingredients, wholesome spices, and rich flavors that make tofu the star of the meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something crunchy, spicy, or savory, these dishes will leave you feeling nourished and energized. Plus, with most recipes being easy to make, these dishes are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious on the table fast!

Bang Bang Tofu Taco Bowl

The tofu taco bowl offers a crispy, baked tofu coated in a flavorful almond and polenta crust, perfect for reducing refined carbs. It’s served with fresh ingredients like marinated tomatoes, red and green cabbage, avocado, and pickled jalapeños, adding vibrant textures and flavors. The spicy, creamy vegan bang bang sauce made from vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha adds a delicious kick. This bowl is easy to prepare and versatile enough for weeknight dinners or taco fillings. You can adjust the spice level based on your preference. It’s a great option for a balanced and satisfying plant-based meal.

Tofu Watercress Salad

The tofu watercress salad by Ellanor over at Oh My Veg! is a vibrant, protein-packed dish inspired by traditional Hawaiian flavors. It features soft tofu, crisp beansprouts, juicy tomatoes, and peppery watercress, all tossed in a tangy, umami-rich dressing made from rice vinegar, sesame oil, and shoyu. The salad is incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just 10 minutes—and can be served with either raw or lightly pan-fried tofu. It’s refreshing, vegan, and perfect for a light, nutritious meal, especially on warmer days.

Easy Tofu Scramble

Start your morning off with this easy tofu scramble paired with crispy, oven-baked potato hash. With a savory umami spice blend and tender shiitake mushrooms, this scramble offers a rich, eggy taste that’s filling and full of flavor. It’s a satisfying breakfast or brunch option, perfect with a side of toast or your favorite fruit. Bonus: leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a meal you can enjoy again later with ease.

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

This crispy vegan chicken nugget recipe by Jess & Dan over at Vegan Punks offers a delicious plant-based take on a classic. These nuggets are made with super-firm tofu, coated in a crispy cornflake crust, and air-fried for a quick, easy, and protein-packed meal.

Marinate the tofu in vegan chicken stock for extra flavor, then dredge it in a simple flour and plant milk mixture before coating with the seasoned cornflakes. Air-fry until golden and crispy, or bake if preferred. They’re perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces or stuffing into wraps for a quick meal.

Healthy Salad With Smoky Maple Tofu

This smoked maple tofu salad by Ania over at Lazy Cat Kitchen blends Asian-inspired flavors with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and a sweet, tangy, smoky tofu glaze. The salad features shaved carrots, thin strips of red pepper, cabbage, cucumber, daikon radish, and herbs like mint and coriander, all tossed in a tangy lime and soy sauce dressing.

The crispy tofu is glazed with a sweet and smoky mix of maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and liquid smoke, which pairs perfectly with the crunchy, fresh salad. It’s a light, healthy dish that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for warm weather.

Healthy General Tso’s Tofu

This General Tso’s tofu recipe offers a lighter, sautéed version of the classic deep-fried dish while still delivering bold flavors. It involves browning firm tofu in a skillet until crispy, then coating it with a flavorful General Tso’s sauce. The sauce, made with sesame oil, ginger, garlic, scallions, soy sauce, mirin, and vegetable broth, provides a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet elements.

Served with steamed broccoli, rice, and optional toppings like Thai chilis and peanuts, this dish delivers all the satisfaction of the traditional version without the need for deep frying.

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

This crispy breaded air fryer tofu recipe by Bri at Evergreen Kitchen is a quick, protein-packed alternative to traditional fried tofu. Using panko breadcrumbs, the tofu achieves a deep-fried texture with minimal oil thanks to the air fryer. Tamari adds rich umami, while cornstarch ensures the breading sticks perfectly. It’s a great plant-based option for rice bowls, salads, or as a snack. The air fryer creates a golden, crispy crust in just 12 minutes, making this an easy, delicious addition to your weeknight meals.

Fried Tofu Recipes

When you’re craving something crispy and satisfying, fried tofu is the perfect way to bring out the best in this versatile plant-based protein. This collection of fried tofu recipes offers everything from light and crispy coatings to rich and flavorful sauces. Each recipe takes tofu to the next level with deep-frying techniques that guarantee a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and delicious.

These best tofu recipes are ideal for when you want something indulgent but still customizable to suit your flavor preferences. Whether you’re new to frying tofu or a seasoned pro, these dishes will have you reaching for your skillet and oil in no time. The result? Perfectly golden tofu that’s delicious on its own or served alongside your favorite dips, veggies, or grains.

Fried Tofu Sandwich

The fried tofu sandwich is a vegan take on the comfort food classic, featuring crispy air-fried tofu slabs coated in a bourbon and vegan buttermilk batter. The tofu is paired with tangy, crunchy cabbage, pickles, and red onions, and topped with a spicy sambal-mayo. The sandwich is served on toasted buns, making it a satisfying, indulgent meal.

The key to the tofu’s crispiness lies in the combination of seasoned flour, cornstarch, and a wet batter that includes a splash of bourbon for flavor and texture. This dish can be customized with different toppings, sauces, and levels of heat depending on your preference.

Deep-Fried Tofu With Gochujang Glaze

This crispy, deep-fried tofu recipe delivers perfectly crunchy tofu with a soft, pillowy interior, coated in a rich, umami-packed gochujang glaze. By combining cornstarch and white rice flour in the coating, and using a double-dredge method, you get that sought-after restaurant-style crunch.

The tofu cubes are first dipped in vegan buttermilk (soy milk and vinegar), and then fried to golden perfection. Tossed in a glaze made from gochujang, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger, this dish is an irresistible blend of textures and flavors. Top it with sliced scallions, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch.

Tahu Goreng Kecap

Tahu Goreng Kecap is a flavorful Indonesian dish featuring crispy fried tofu coated in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. In this vegan recipe by Chef Adam Sobel over at Cinnamon Snail, tofu is lightly coated with tapioca or cornstarch and pan-fried to achieve a crispy texture.

The sauce, made from kecap manis (Indonesian sweet soy sauce), tamarind, lime juice, and spices like garlic and bird’s eye chilies, offers a bold combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The dish is garnished with fried shallots, peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs for added texture and freshness. This recipe is perfect as a main dish or served alongside rice for a complete meal.

Deep-Fried Battered Tofu

This super crispy tofu by Petranka over at Sunglow Kitchen is a deep-fried tofu dish made by coating tofu in a savory batter and deep-frying it to golden perfection. Extra-firm tofu is marinated in soy sauce, then coated with a combination of flour, potato starch, and spices. The tofu is fried twice, ensuring a crispy exterior with a tender, chewy interior. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili or peanut sauce, or add it to grain bowls or salads for a protein boost.

Tofu Katsu

Tofu Katsu is a delicious and hearty vegan alternative to traditional chicken katsu. The tofu recipe, created by Chef Adam Sobel at Cinnamon Snail is pressed, frozen, and then pressed again to create a firm, meat-like texture. It’s coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb layer and fried to perfection. The dish is served with a flavorful tonkatsu sauce made from vegan Worcestershire sauce, sake, rice vinegar, and date syrup, among other ingredients.

This crispy tofu dish is perfect over rice and pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like bok choy or a side of kimchi. The unique preparation of the tofu, combined with the rich tonkatsu sauce, makes it a satisfying and indulgent plant-based meal.

Deep-Fried Vegan Fish and Chips

This deep-fried tofu recipe offers a delicious plant-based take on the classic British fish and chips dish. Made from extra-firm tofu marinated in a savory mix of nori powder, vegan fish sauce, rice vinegar, and white miso, the tofu takes on a vegan seafood flavor. Coated in a light and crispy batter made from flour, cornflour, and sparkling water, it provides the airy texture that mimics traditional fish batter.

Deep-fried until golden, the tofu is served with classic accompaniments like mushy peas, vegan tartare sauce, or even curry sauce. This recipe by Ellanor over at Oh My Veg! knocks it out of the park!

All About Tofu: What You Need to Know

We’ve covered some of the best tofu recipes—crispy, savory, and packed with flavor. But behind every great tofu dish is a basic understanding of this versatile ingredient. Whether you’re new to cooking with tofu or just looking to step up your game, knowing the different types, how to prepare it, and when pressing matters can make all the difference. Let’s break it down.

What is Tofu?

Tofu, or bean curd if we’re feeling fancy, is a plant-based protein made from soybeans that’s known for its versatility. It’s like a blank canvas—perfect for soaking up flavors, whether you’re frying it until golden or stirring it into soups. If you’ve ever had bland tofu, you just haven’t tried it the right way yet. The best tofu recipes show how transformative this ingredient can be, turning it into something downright delicious.

Types of Tofu

Not all tofu is created equal, and knowing which type to use can make a world of difference in your dishes. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of tofu:

• Silken Tofu: Soft and creamy, it’s your go-to for soups, smoothies, and desserts. Think velvety, not crumbly.
• Soft Tofu: Delicate and perfect for soups like miso or blending into sauces.
• Firm/Extra-Firm Tofu: This is your workhorse tofu. It holds up in stir-fries, bakes, and even grills without falling apart. If you want crispy tofu, this is the one to press and cook.
• Medium-Firm Tofu: Slightly softer than firm tofu, it’s a great option for stir-fries and stews where you want a bit more tenderness.

How to Press Tofu

Not every tofu recipe needs to start with pressing. If you’re frying it up for a quick dish, you can often skip this step. But if you’re marinating your tofu and really want it to soak up all those flavors, pressing is key. Removing excess water lets the tofu absorb marinades more effectively, turning it from bland to flavorful in no time. Check out how to press tofu with my handy guide! →

How to Cook Tofu

Cooking tofu is all about technique. Whether you’re aiming for crispy, chewy, or tender, tofu can do it all. The best tofu recipes take advantage of different methods to bring out its best texture:

• Frying: Coat your tofu lightly in cornstarch and pan-fry for a crispy, golden crust.
• Baking: Marinate and bake for a firmer, more flavorful result—perfect for salads and bowls.
• Grilling: Extra-firm tofu loves the grill. Brush it with oil, throw it on the grill, and get those perfect char marks for a smoky flavor.
• Deep-Frying: Submerging battered or breaded tofu in hot oil for a crispy, indulgent coating.

Freezing Tofu for a Meatier Texture

Freezing tofu is one of the simplest tricks to completely transform its texture. When you freeze tofu, the water inside it expands, creating tiny pockets throughout the block. This process alters the tofu’s structure, giving it a firmer, chewier, and spongier consistency once thawed. It’s perfect for those looking for a meatier texture in their plant-based dishes. Here’s a bit more about the process and why it works:

How Freezing Changes Tofu’s Texture

When tofu is frozen, the water trapped inside turns to ice, expanding and breaking apart the protein structure. Once thawed, the water drains out, leaving behind small holes, giving the tofu a denser, almost sponge-like texture. This transformation allows the tofu to absorb marinades and sauces much more effectively, making it incredibly flavorful in the final dish.

Pressing After Freezing

After thawing the tofu, it’s important to press it to remove any remaining moisture. While to press or not to press is often debated, it becomes essential when tofu is frozen and thawed. This removes the extra water, allowing the tofu to crisp up better during cooking or to effectively soak up marinades. Simply place the thawed tofu between a really thick towel and press gently with a weight to squeeze out the excess liquid.

Perfect for Marinades

The beauty of frozen, thawed, and pressed tofu is how it soaks up marinades like a sponge. Thanks to its new structure, marinades penetrate deep into the tofu, infusing it with intense flavor. Whether you’re using soy sauce, barbecue sauce, or a spicy chili marinade, the tofu will take on a bold, flavorful profile after just 30 minutes.

Using Frozen Tofu in Recipes

Once pressed and marinated, frozen tofu works well in a variety of recipes. Its meatier, chewy texture holds up in stir-fries, soups, and even grilled dishes. It’s particularly great in hearty dishes like soups, stir-fries, vegan chicken, and more.

Your Next Move

Now that you’ve got the best tofu recipes at your disposal, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Whether you’re craving something crispy, savory, or a bit indulgent, these recipes offer all the plant-based inspiration you need. Tofu’s versatility means that no matter your skill level or occasion, there’s always a perfect dish to suit your needs. So go ahead, explore, experiment, and let tofu surprise you with its endless possibilities!

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This post was last updated on September 7, 2024.