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Homemade Asian Garlic Tofu (Easy!) photo

Asian Garlic Tofu (Easy!)

Quick marinated and pan-seared tofu in a savory garlic-hoisin sauce.
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 3 servings

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl or shallow dish
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Spatula or tongs
  • tofu press or paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu pressed
  • 4 green onions sliced
  • 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 Tbsp tamari (or soy sauce)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Make the sauce: In a bowl or shallow dish, combine hoisin sauce, tamari (or soy sauce), minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and toasted sesame oil; stir until smooth.
  • Prepare the tofu: Cut the pressed extra-firm tofu into bite-size cubes (about 3/4-inch or to your preference).
  • Marinate: Add the tofu cubes to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Let sit for about 10 minutes to absorb flavor.
  • Heat the skillet: Warm the toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  • Cook the tofu: Add the marinated tofu and any remaining sauce to the skillet, spreading the cubes into a single layer. Cook without stirring for 5–6 minutes until the bottoms are lightly seared.
  • Add green onions and finish cooking: Slice the green onions while the tofu sears. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the green onions, then stir and cook 2–3 more minutes until the tofu reaches your desired texture.
  • Serve: Serve warm over rice, quinoa, or noodles with vegetables as desired, and optionally garnish with sesame seeds or red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • Press tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  • Use a tofu press or wrap tofu in paper towels and weigh it down.
  • For gluten-free, use tamari and a gluten-free hoisin sauce.
  • Make it spicy by adding chili paste, red pepper flakes, or sriracha.
  • Recipe updated April 2025.