Go Back
+ servings

Maple Glazed Tofu

This Maple Glazed Tofu recipe is sweet, savory, spicy, and a delicious plant-based protein for a flavorful vegan meal served with rice, noodles, veggies, and more!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: Maple Glazed Tofu
Servings: 4
Author: Christi

Ingredients

  • 14 - 16 ounces tofu (see notes)
  • chives sliced chives or scallions as garnish.

Maple Glaze

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup pure maple syrup.
  • 3 tablespoons tamari (see notes)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or sesame oil, plus extra if you are using the pan-seared cooking method.
  • 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger minced or grated
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds white, black, or a mix, plus extra for garnish if desired.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (see notes)

Instructions

  • This maple glazed tofu recipe can be baked in the oven or pan-seared. Both cooking methods are listed below. The baking method is healthier since it requires less oil, but the pan-seared tofu is crispier. The choice is yours.
  • First, drain the tofu, then slice the block of tofu lengthwise into even rows that are about 1/2 - 3/4 inch thick. Layer 3 paper towels on a flat surface and place the tofu slabs on top of the paper towels. Lay another 2 – 3 paper towels on top of the tofu. Place a heavy plate or cutting board on top of the towels. Gently but firmly press the tofu to drain the excess liquid. Continue until you have removed as much liquid as possible. Once drained, I slice each piece once diagonally to create 2 even triangles, but you can also cut them into squares. 
  • Next, make the maple glaze. See below.
  • Gently place the tofu into a larger container or bowl, then pour half of the maple glaze over the tofu, reserving the second half of the maple glaze. Allow the tofu to soak for 15 minutes, then select your cooking method below.
  • Once the tofu is cooked to your liking, add the reserved half of the glaze to a small pan over low heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until it begins to reduce and thicken, being careful not to burn, then turn off the heat.
  • Brush the tofu with the reduced maple glaze to coat, then drizzle the remaining glaze over the tofu. Garnish with chives, extra sesame seeds, and extra crushed red pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Maple Glaze

  • Add the maple syrup, tamari, rice vinegar, oil, red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger, and coriander to a small bowl, then whisk to combine.

Pan-Seared Tofu

  • Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Carefully add the tofu to the pan and cook until crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.

Baked Maple Glazed Tofu

  • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, spray with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Transfer the prepared tofu to the lined baking sheet in a single layer, not crowding. Place onto the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Carefully remove from the oven and flip each piece of tofu over with a spatula, then return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the tofu is cooked to your liking.

Notes

  • Tofu: I used a block of organic extra-firm tofu. I would not use anything less than extra-firm tofu with this recipe. Draining and pressing as much liquid out of the tofu as possible produces the best result.
  • Tamari: I use low-sodium gluten-free tamari, but you can use soy sauce as a substitute.

Spicy Maple Glazed Tofu

I make spicy maple glazed tofu by adding extra crushed red pepper flakes as garnish. The red pepper adds the heat, but you can easily omit or use less if you do not like spicy food. If you like spicy food, do a taste test and add more if desired.