Make crispy, bite-sized tofu nuggets coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze using a simple sheet pan baking method.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:35 min
Total Time:50 min
Yield:3 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Asian-Inspired
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch nugget shapes.
In a medium bowl, toss the tofu nuggets with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of oil.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and the coated tofu until every piece is lightly dusted.
Spread the coated tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through.
While the tofu bakes, prepare the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame oil and water.
Remove the partially cooked tofu from the oven. Brush or toss the nuggets thoroughly with half of the honey garlic sauce.
Return the sauced nuggets to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and crispy.
Toss the hot, crispy nuggets with the remaining sauce just before serving.
Notes
Pressing the tofu thoroughly is key to achieving a crispy exterior. Use a dedicated tofu press or wrap the block in paper towels and place heavy objects on top.
For extra crispiness, you can toss the tofu in the cornstarch mixture twice.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce longer until it reduces more significantly.