If you have ever wished to master a delightful vegetarian dish that bursts with flavor and texture, then the Pan Fried Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings crispy, golden tofu bites perfectly coated in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that complements the natural creaminess of the tofu, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this recipe offers a vibrant one-bowl feast that’s both comforting and colorful, sure to brighten up any dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six steps of frying tofu. The first two steps have a woman's hand dipping small square tofu pieces: first into beaten yellow egg in a clear glass bowl, then into a white powder (likely flour or starch) in another clear glass bowl, both placed on a white marbled surface. The next two images show the tofu squares arranged in a single layer in a black frying pan. In the third image, the tofu is pale and starting to cook, while in the fourth image, the tofu pieces have turned golden brown and crispy. The last two images show a thick reddish-brown sauce in the frying pan being stirred with a spatula, and then the browned tofu squares coated evenly with the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Pan Fried Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, combining to create an irresistible balance of crispy, tangy, and subtly sweet flavors along with vibrant colors and textures that make every bite a joy.

Firm tofu (14 oz / 396 g): The base of the dish, firm tofu holds its shape well for frying and provides a meaty texture.
Cornstarch (1/3 cup + 1 tsp): Essential for that crispy coating on the tofu and for thickening the sauce.
Egg (1, beaten): Helps the cornstarch stick to the tofu, ensuring a perfect golden crust.
Water (3 tablespoons): Balances the sauce’s consistency for the ideal saucy glaze.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami richness; substitute tamari for a gluten-free option.
Vegetarian oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Elevates the sauce with a deep, savory complexity.
Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings a bright, tangy zing that contrasts beautifully with the sweet elements.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Lends sweetness and a tomato-rich base to the sauce.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): A touch of sweetness to harmonize the sauce flavors.
Peanut or vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for pan frying the tofu to a crispy finish without overpowering the dish.
Green onion (1, sliced): For a fresh, mild oniony garnish that adds color and brightness.

How to Make Pan Fried Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by gently patting the tofu dry using paper towels—that extra moisture can prevent the perfect crispiness. Then slice the tofu into half-inch thick pieces for even cooking. Set up two shallow bowls: one with cornstarch and the other with the beaten egg. This simple prep is key to getting that golden coating we all crave.

Step 2: Mix the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small bowl, combine water, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and an extra teaspoon of cornstarch. Whisk these together until everything is smooth and set it aside. This blend will soon transform into a luscious, glossy sauce that clings to every tofu piece.

Step 3: Pan Fry the Tofu

Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. One by one, dip the tofu first in cornstarch, coating both sides, then immediately into the beaten egg. Place each piece carefully into the pan and cook each side until golden brown and crisp—usually a few minutes per side. Transfer the browned tofu to a large plate, and add oil as needed between batches.

Step 4: Combine Tofu with the Sauce

Once your tofu is stunningly crisp, pour the prepared sauce into the hot pan. Cook it for a minute or two over medium heat until it thickens into a beautiful glaze. Return the tofu to the pan and gently stir it to coat every piece without breaking. Finish by sprinkling sliced green onion on top for that fresh pop of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Pan Fried Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe

A black plate filled with golden-brown tofu squares covered in a shiny, reddish-orange sauce, scattered with thinly sliced green onions and small white sesame seeds. Each tofu piece has a crispy texture on the outside with a slightly glossy surface from the sauce. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, with wooden chopsticks resting nearby and a blue cloth to the side. The overall look is warm and inviting, highlighting the rich colors and textures of the tofu and garnishes photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions adds a mild crunch and enhances the fresh aroma. You can also toss on some toasted sesame seeds or fresh chopped cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and eye-catching presentation.

Side Dishes

This Pan Fried Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up all the sauce. For a green touch, sautéed or steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy make crisp, nutritious companions to this lively entrée.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile the tofu and sauce over a bed of warm quinoa or cauliflower rice for a fiber-rich, wholesome meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside crispy lettuce cups or rice paper rolls for a vibrant appetizer-style treat that’s as playful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover pan fried tofu with sweet and sour sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The tofu will continue to absorb the flavors, making leftovers even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This dish does not freeze particularly well, as tofu’s texture changes when frozen and thawed again. It’s best to prepare fresh batches or keep leftovers refrigerated rather than frozen.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the tofu crispy; add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the texture, but for a quick fix, a brief zap will work in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use firm tofu instead of extra firm?

Yes! Firm tofu works well for this recipe and provides a slightly softer texture. Just handle it gently to prevent crumbling while coating and frying.

What if I am gluten intolerant?

Simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari, which is gluten free, and ensure your vegetarian oyster sauce is also gluten free to keep the dish safe and delicious.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Absolutely! Adding a splash of sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce will give you a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can easily be vegan by replacing the beaten egg with a vegan alternative like a flax egg or aquafaba, though the texture might differ slightly.

What is the best oil to use for frying tofu?

Peanut oil is ideal for its high smoke point and subtle flavor, but vegetable oil or canola oil work perfectly as well for a crispy finish.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Pan Fried Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe a try soon. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a colorful, flavorful meal that’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough to impress your loved ones. Once you nail the crispy tofu and that vibrant sauce, you’ll find it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!