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
Save This Recipe
Want to get this recipe in your email? Just enter your email below and get it now along with new recipe updates!
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 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder optional
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- diced green onion
- sesame seeds
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 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/4 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 and/or sesame seeds for a pretty garnish.
This is SO delicious! Will be adding it to the menu rotation. Thank you for sharing the recipe! ❤️
Thanks Amber! Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
This was a fantastic recipe and delicious!