Crispy Teriyaki Tofu

Ingredients

• 6 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 tbsp water
• 6 tbsp mirin
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 3 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 28 oz firm or extra-firm tofu (torn into rough ¾-inch pieces)
• 6 tbsp vegetable oil (divided; 3 tablespoons for each batch of tofu)
• 0.75 tsp cornstarch
• 2 scallions (sliced thin)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• rice (for serving; quantity not specified in the source)

Steps

1. 1

   Combine the soy sauce, water, mirin, sugar, and grated fresh ginger in a small bowl.

2. 2

   Microwave the mixture until the sugar is dissolved, about 1 minute, stirring halfway through. Set the sauce mixture aside.

3. 3

   Spread the torn tofu over a paper towel-lined baking sheet and let it drain for 20 minutes.

4. 4

   Gently pat the tofu dry with paper towels.

5. 5

   Heat 3 tablespoons of the vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat until just smoking.

6. 6

   Add half of the tofu to the skillet. Cook, stirring and turning occasionally, until it is well browned and crispy on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the first batch to a large bowl.

7. 7

   Reduce the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons oil and the remaining tofu to the skillet.

8. 8

   Cook the second batch, stirring and turning occasionally, until well browned and crispy on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes. Add it to the bowl with the first batch.

9. 9

   Meanwhile, whisk the cornstarch into the reserved soy sauce mixture.

10. 10

    Wipe out the skillet with paper towels.

11. 11

    Add the soy sauce mixture to the empty skillet and cook over low heat until the sauce has thickened slightly, 1 to 2 minutes.

12. 12

    Remove the skillet from the heat. Return the tofu to the skillet and toss it with the sauce to coat.

13. 13

    Transfer the tofu to a serving platter. Sprinkle with the thinly sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.

14. 14

    Serve immediately with rice.

Notes

The source explains that tearing the tofu increases its surface area, creating crisp edges and nooks for the teriyaki sauce to cling to. Rice is recommended for serving, but no quantity or preparation instructions are provided.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• vegetarian
• Japanese-inspired
• pan-fried
• crispy
• tofu
• quick meal
• dairy-free