Sweet chili tofu is a tasty dish that mixes the soft texture of tofu with a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. It's a simple recipe where tofu is made crispy and then mixed with a sauce that's both sweet and has a bit of a kick.
This dish is perfect for anyone wanting to try something different with tofu or looking for a delicious, meat-free option. Sweet chili tofu can be a main meal or a side dish, and it's great for sharing with friends and family. It's easy to make, needing just a few ingredients and some steps to prepare.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a hit because it transforms tofu, often considered bland, into something exciting and flavorful. The secret lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The outside of the tofu gets crispy and golden, while the inside stays soft and tender. Then, when the tofu is coated in the sweet chili sauce, it picks up a beautiful balance of sweetness and heat, making every bite a delight. Plus, the cornstarch helps to seal in the tofu's natural flavor and ensures that the sauce sticks well, giving you a perfect finish.
Another great thing about sweet chili tofu is its versatility. It can easily fit into any meal plan, whether you're a vegetarian or just trying to eat less meat. You can serve it with rice, noodles, or a variety of vegetables, making it a versatile dish that never gets boring. The recipe is also easy to adjust to your taste; you can make it sweeter, spicier, or add other ingredients like ginger or lime for extra zest. It's a simple way to make a nutritious, protein-packed meal that's full of flavor, proving that plant-based dishes can be just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts.
Ingredients
Tofu - Firm or extra-firm is best for frying or baking to get a crispy outside. Press it first to remove extra water.
Sweet Chili Sauce - Adds a sweet and spicy flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference.
Soy Sauce - Brings saltiness and depth. Tamari or coconut aminos are good substitutes for a gluten-free option.
Cornstarch - Helps to create a crispy coating on the tofu when fried or baked. Arrowroot powder can be a substitute.
Garlic - Adds a punch of flavor. Fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Tips
- Pressing the tofu for at least 20 minutes before cooking removes excess moisture, leading to a crispier finish.
- Toss the tofu gently in the cornstarch to avoid breaking it.
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce and garlic before coating in cornstarch.
- Cook the tofu on medium-high heat to ensure it gets crispy without burning.
- Let the cooked tofu sit in the sweet chili sauce for a few minutes before serving to soak up the flavors.
How to Serve
Sweet chili tofu is a flavorful, versatile dish that's perfect for those looking to enjoy a plant-based protein with a kick. It's great on its own as a main course or can be paired with a variety of sides for a more rounded meal. The combination of crispy tofu with the sweet and spicy sauce makes it a hit with both adults and kids.
- Over Rice: Serve the sweet chili tofu over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a simple, satisfying meal.
- With Vegetables: Pair it with stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for a colorful and healthy dinner.
- In Wraps: Use the tofu as a filling for wraps, adding lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and carrots for a crunchy, fresh meal option.
Similar Recipes
Sweet Chili Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 block 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- Oil for frying
- Optional for garnish: Sesame seeds green onions
Instructions
- After pressing the tofu, cut it into cubes and toss it with the soy sauce and minced garlic. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Place the cornstarch in a bowl. Add the tofu cubes, tossing gently until they're evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes, frying them until all sides are golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the tofu is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the sweet chili sauce to the pan, tossing the tofu gently to coat evenly.
- Serve the sweet chili tofu hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Toss the tofu gently in the cornstarch to avoid breaking it.
• For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce and garlic before coating in cornstarch.
• Cook the tofu on medium-high heat to ensure it gets crispy without burning.
• Let the cooked tofu sit in the sweet chili sauce for a few minutes before serving to soak up the flavors.