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Pan-Fried Tofu with Citrus-Ginger Glaze

weeknightvegetarianasian-inspired
15 minPrep20 minCook2Serves

Ingredients

  • 14 ouncesextra-firm tofu
  • 2lime
  • 1 tablespoonfresh ginger
  • 3 tablespoonsoy sauce
  • 1 tablespoonrice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoonhoney
  • 2 clovesgarlic
  • 2 tablespoonsvegetable oil
  • 2green onion
  • 1 teaspoonsesame seeds

Prep

  1. 01

    Mince 2 cloves garlic.

  2. 02

    Grate 1 tablespoon fresh ginger.

  3. 03

    Juice 2 limes.

  4. 04

    Slice 2 green onions on the bias.

Method

  1. 01

    Press the tofu between paper towels or in a tofu press for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

  2. 02

    Cut the pressed tofu into 3/4-inch thick rectangular slices or cubes.

  3. 03

    Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the tofu in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate.

  4. 04

    In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. 05

    Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and juice from both limes. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer for 1 minute.

  6. 06

    Return the tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the glaze. Warm through for 1–2 minutes.

  7. 07

    Transfer to a serving plate and top with sliced green onion and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired.

Spice Tips

For gentle heat, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the glaze. For more punch, stir in 1/2 teaspoon sriracha or a dash of cayenne. Fresh cilantro or Thai basil scattered over the top adds herbal brightness.

For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in step 5. Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or egg noodles to soak up the bright sauce. Leftovers keep for 3 days in an airtight container.

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