This dish will make you fall in love with tofu! There is such a fabulous explosion of flavor and texture in this recipe, but somehow, the flavors still feel so comforting. Peanuts, honey, chile pepper flakes, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce — it’s an umami festival. The tofu is creamy on the inside and crackly on the outside, and the sautéed cubes are enfolded in a sweet and savory sauce you will dream about.

Serve this savory and slightly sweet tofu atop white rice with Chili Crunch Cole Slaw or a salad with Japanese Restaurant Salad Dressing. Also, try Tofu with Peanut Sauce!

Ingredients

• Peanut oil – For sautéeing. You can use any type of neutral oil.
• Tofu – I use extra-firm tofu and press it for the best texture; check out How to Press Tofu before you start cooking.
• Garlic – For depth of flavor and aromatics.
• Red chili flakes – For a bit of spice.
• Honey – For a touch of sweetness.
• Soy sauce – For umami flavor notes.
• Lime juice – A touch of acid to brighten the dish and bring out all the flavors.
• Minced fresh ginger – Offers a bright spiciness.
• Salted peanuts – For crunch. You could also use cashews or other nuts (check to make sure there are no tree nut allergies!)
• Rice – To serve.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Tofu

1. Cook the tofu: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tofu until browned and remove to a plate (see more about how to Make Crispy Tofu in a Pan).

2. Make the sauce: Over low heat, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté the garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes. Add the honey and soy sauce and mix until well combined. Stir in the lime juice, then return the tofu to the skillet and coat it thoroughly in the sauce.
3. Finish and enjoy: Transfer to a plate and sprinkle the peanuts over the top. Serve with the hot rice.

Tips

• Make sure to press the tofu to remove as much of the water in the tofu as possible.
• Let the tofu really sear in the pan, and don’t be tempted to flip it around too often. It needs solid time on each side to get nicely browned and change texture from soft to something with real give.

Storage

Store your cooked tofu with the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The tofu will get a bit softer, but it will still taste delicious. You can eat it cold or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Spicy, Sweet, and Nutty Tofu

Avocado Salad with Creamy Miso Dressing

Vegan Asian Napa Cabbage Slaw

Miso-Glazed Japanese Eggplant

More Tofu Recipes

• Orange Tofu
• Simple Stir-Fried Vegetables with Crispy Tofu
• Korean Tofu Salad
• Shiitake Mushroom and Spinach Dumplings
• Vegetable Udon Soup