Crispy Tofu with Apricot Chili Glaze
Golden tofu gets coated in a glossy apricot chili glaze for a fast dinner with sweet heat and plenty of crunch.
Prep: 12 · Cook: 18 · Total: 30 · Serves: 4 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.7/5 (184 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
Inspired by takeout-style sweet chili tofu and the bright tang of apricot preserves.
Story
Theo likes dinner with a little crunch and a little swagger, and this tofu brings both. The apricot glaze hits sweet first, then chili and vinegar cut across it before the sesame seeds close the deal. Put it over rice, turn up the heat, and let the skillet do the talking.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 14 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
- 1/3 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tablespoon chili-garlic sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 3 cups cooked white rice
Instructions
- Pat the tofu very dry, then toss it with the cornstarch and salt until every cube looks lightly dusted.
- Whisk the apricot preserves, chili-garlic sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
- Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add the tofu in a single layer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until crisp and golden.
- Lower the heat, pour in the apricot glaze, and toss for 2 minutes until the sauce clings to the tofu.
- Spoon the tofu over rice and finish with scallions and sesame seeds.
Chef Tips
- Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes for crisper edges.
- Add an extra teaspoon of chili-garlic sauce if you want a louder kick.
- Do not crowd the skillet; cook the tofu in two batches if needed.
- The glaze thickens quickly, so keep the rice ready before you sauce the tofu.
Cook's Notes
- **Dry tofu:** Press and pat the tofu dry before adding cornstarch.
- **Glaze:** Keep the heat low after adding the sauce so it stays glossy.
- **Rice:** Leftover rice works well here and keeps the meal quick.