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Marinated Tofu for the Best Flavor Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 59 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Marinated Tofu recipe infuses firm tofu with a delicious blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to deliver the best tofu flavour. Pressing the tofu ensures a firm texture, while marinating it allows deep flavor penetration. The tofu is then pan-fried to a golden, crispy perfection, making it a delightful addition to rice, noodles, or salads. Perfect for a simple, tasty vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

Tofu

  • 1 block firm tofu (14 oz), drained and pressed

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Garnishes (Optional)

  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel, place a heavy object on top, and press for 15–20 minutes to achieve a firm texture that absorbs the marinade better.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger until fully combined to create a balanced, flavorful marinade.
  3. Marinate: Cut the pressed tofu into cubes or slices as desired. Place the tofu pieces in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, pour the marinade over, toss gently to coat all sides, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate.
  4. Cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook the marinated tofu for 4–5 minutes on each side until the pieces are crispy and golden brown, ensuring a delicious contrast between the crispy exterior and tender interior.
  5. Serve: Sprinkle the cooked tofu with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and aroma. Serve the marinated tofu over rice, noodles, or in salads for a complete, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu is essential to remove excess water and help it absorb more marinade.
  • You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes but ideally up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
  • For crispier tofu, avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking.
  • Use firm tofu for best results; extra-firm tofu can also be used if desired.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/marinated-tofu-for-the-best-flavor-recipe/