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4.9 from 21 votes

Asian Garlic Tofu (Easy!)

This delicious tofu is marinated in a garlic sauce that's packed with sweet, savory flavor! It's easy to make and great with a side of rice & steamed veggies.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Servings: 3 large bowls
Calories: 180 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian , Vegan , gluten-free

Ingredients

  • 14 oz. extra-firm tofu (pressed*)
  • 4 green onions
  • 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil
For the garlic sauce:
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce**
  • 2 Tbsp. tamari (or soy sauce)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp. freshly grated ginger (optional)

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Make the sauce: Add all garlic sauce ingredients to a bowl or shallow dish. Stir to combine.
  2. Prepare tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. (I cut mine about 3/4-inch, but you can cut yours smaller or even tear them if desired.) Then add the tofu cubes to the sauce. Gently toss until thoroughly coated. Set aside and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
  3. Cook: In a large skillet, heat the toasted sesame oil over medium heat. Once oil is hot, carefully add the marinated tofu (with all remaining sauce). Spread out the cubes in a single layer. Simmer and cook without stirring for 5-6 minutes or until lightly seared on one side.
  4. Add green onions: Meanwhile, slice the green onions. After the tofu cooks for 5-6 minutes, reduce heat to medium-low. Add the green onions. Then stir the cubes and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes or until desired texture is achieved.
  5. Serve: It's great served warm over rice (or quinoa or noodles) with steamed broccoli or other veggies on the side. Garnish with sesame seeds or red pepper flakes for a little spice.

Notes

  • *Pressing tofu: Use a tofu press for at least 15 minutes (or longer) beforehand if you have one. Otherwise, simply press the tofu between paper towels to remove some of the excess moisture. This helps better absorb the marinade.
  • **For gluten-free: Use tamari and a gluten-free hoisin sauce. (I use the San-J brand or Wok Mei for gluten-free hoisin.)
  • Make it spicy: Add chili paste to the marinade, red chili pepper flakes, or sriracha before serving.
  • Recipe originally published May 2014. Updated April 2025.

Nutrition Information

Calories 180kcal (9%) Carbohydrates 15g (5%) Protein 12g (24%) Fat 8g (12%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Polyunsaturated Fat 4g Monounsaturated Fat 3g Cholesterol 1mg (0%) Potassium 311mg (9%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 8g (16%) Vitamin A 161IU (3%) Vitamin C 4mg (4%) Calcium 66mg (7%) Iron 2mg (11%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 3large bowls

Amount Per Serving

Calories 180

% Daily Value*

Calories 180kcal 9%
Carbohydrates 15g 5%
Protein 12g 24%
Fat 8g 12%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4g 24%
Monounsaturated Fat 3g 15%
Cholesterol 1mg 0%
Potassium 311mg 7%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 8g 16%
Vitamin A 161IU 3%
Vitamin C 4mg 4%
Calcium 66mg 7%
Iron 2mg 11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.