Firecracker Tofu
This Firecracker Tofu is made with extra crispy pan-fried tofu that is tossed in a flavorful sweet, spicy, and tangy Firecracker sauce. This tastes like take-out, but made right in your own kitchen!
What you’ll love about this:
If you’ve never had firecracker sauce….get ready for an explosion of flavors in your mouth! The buffalo sauce gives it some heat which is a nice contrast to the sweetness from the brown sugar, a touch of umami from the soy sauce, and tang from the apple cider vinegar.
All drizzled over a crispy pan-fried tofu…a pure flavor firework!
What You Need
*See below for more information.
See recipe card for full ingredient list and quantities.
Is cornstarch gluten-free?
Yes, cornstarch is naturally gluten-free. It’s made from the starchy part of corn kernels. However, if you need to avoid gluten strictly, it’s best to check the packaging – look for cornstarch specifically labeled as gluten-free to be safe.
What type of buffalo sauce should I use?
Use whichever you prefer! Luckily buffalo sauce comes in various heat levels. I love to use a Mild Frank’s Red Hot (my taste buds can’t handle it too spicy!)
How to Make Firecracker Tofu
Prep Tofu
Pat your pressed tofu dry with a paper towel or dishcloth. Cut into 1-1.5 inch cubes.
In a bowl or a large gallon size plastic bag, add your tofu cubes with the cornstarch and salt and gently toss until combined.
Pan-Fry
In a medium-large non-stick pan, warm some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your tofu cubes and pan-fry until golden brown on each side. (This takes about 8-10 minutes).
Whisk Firecracker Sauce
While your tofu cooks, whisk up your sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
Add Sauce & Serve
Turn down your stove to low heat. Add your sauce to your tofu and gently toss until combined. Warm for a few minutes so the sauce can caramelize on the tofu.
Enjoy right away with rice and veggies. Top with diced green onion for a pretty garnish.
How do I store leftover Firecracker Tofu?
Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
I do not recommend freezing leftovers.
Is Firecracker Tofu Spicy?
Yes, this recipe definitely has a kick thanks to that buffalo sauce. If you prefer less spicy, you could use a mild buffalo sauce or try out my flavorful (but mild) tofu recipes like my Crispy Asian Tofu or my Mouthwatering Sticky Tofu.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
You can – instead of pan-frying the tofu you can air fry it. After coating it in cornstarch, place the tofu cubes evenly in the air fryer basket and air fry at 400 F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy.
In a pan, add your crispy tofu and pour over the sauce. Heat on low until tofu is warmed and the sauce is sticking to the tofu.
Pro Tips
- Use the biggest pan you have and let the oil warm for at least 1-2 minutes before adding your tofu cubes to optimize crispiness.
- Serve your firecracker tofu with some freshly basmati rice and broccoli.
Firecracker Tofu
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Ingredients
- 14 oz extra firm tofu drained and pressed for 20 minutes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2-3 tbsp neutral oil
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder optional
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- diced green onion
Instructions
- Prep tofu: Pat your pressed tofu dry with a paper towel or dish cloth. Cut into 1-1.5 inch cubes.14 oz extra firm tofu
- Coat in cornstarch: In a bowl or a large gallon size plastic bag, add your tofu cubes with the cornstarch and salt and gently toss until combined.2 tbsp cornstarch, 1/4 tsp salt
- Pan-Fry: In a medium-large non-stick pan, warm some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your tofu cubes and pan-fry until golden brown on each side. (This takes about 8-10 minutes).*For an oil-free recipe using the air-fryer, see below in the notes section.2-3 tbsp neutral oil
- Whisk sauce: While your tofu cooks, whisk up your sauce ingredients in a small microwavable bowl. Tip: I recommend microwaving your sauce for 30 seconds to help the brown sugar dissolve better!1/4 cup buffalo sauce, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon salt
- Add sauce: Turn down your stove to low heat. Add your sauce to your tofu and gently toss until combined. Warm for a few minutes so the sauce can caramelize on the tofu.
- Serve: Enjoy right away with rice and veggies. Top with diced green onion for a pretty garnish.
