Delicious Firecracker Tofu: My Most Popular Recipe!

Crispy tofu tossed in a sweet and spicy firecracker sauce—easy, bold, and perfect for a flavorful plant-based meal!

There’s something truly magical about a spicy, crispy tofu dish that hits all the right flavor notes—sweet, spicy, tangy, and rich. Enter: Firecracker Tofu, my absolute most requested and beloved recipe to date. This fiery, flavor-packed tofu is everything you want in a delicious vegetarian meal. With a golden brown, crispy texture and a bold, spicy firecracker sauce made from simple ingredients, it’s easy to see why this recipe has taken off. Whether you’re a tofu lover or a recent convert, this dish will have you licking the bowl and going back for seconds.

Perfectly crisp tofu pieces are pan-fried and baked in a spicy-sweet sauce made with Franks hot sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and melted butter. It’s one of those tofu recipes that feels like you’re indulging in your favorite takeout meal, minus the mystery ingredients. This spicy tofu recipe is endlessly versatile—serve it over jasmine rice, tucked into lettuce wraps, or spooned over cauliflower rice with a squeeze of lime wedge for a low-carb twist. However you serve it, this firecracker tofu recipe delivers big time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a lot of tofu recipes out there, but this one? It’s the real thing. From the crispy coating to the rich, spicy sauce that gets soaked up by every inch of tofu, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s also a fantastic plant-based protein option, packed with flavor but still completely vegetarian. If you’re a fan of firecracker chicken, this tofu version will totally blow you away.

The magic lies in its bold contrast of textures and flavors—crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in a spicy-sweet glaze. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, it uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This spicy recipe will become a go-to in your meal rotation!

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A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Let’s talk about what makes this recipe shine. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• extra firm tofu – Use a tofu press or wrap it in paper towels with a heavy object on top to remove excess water. This helps the tofu get nice and crispy.
• Franks hot sauce – The base of your spicy firecracker sauce; it brings heat and flavor.
• cornstarch – Essential for getting that crispy tofu finish when pan-frying.
• mayonnaise & milk – Whisked together to create a batter that helps the cornstarch stick and adds richness.
• soy sauce – Adds savory depth to the tofu before frying.
• garlic powder – Infuses flavor directly into the tofu cubes.
• butter – Combined with hot sauce and brown sugar to make the ultimate spicy sauce.
• brown sugar – Balances out the heat with a little sweetness.
• sesame seeds – Sprinkled on top for crunch and a nutty finish.

Optional garnishes: chopped green onion, red pepper flakes, a drizzle of chili garlic oil, or a splash of rice vinegar for extra tang.

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How to Make the Recipe

This firecracker tofu recipe comes together in a few easy steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes after pressing out as much excess water as possible.
3. Season the tofu by tossing it in soy sauce and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
4. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and milk.

1. Dip each tofu cube into the mayo mixture, then coat in cornstarch until well covered.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add sesame oil or olive oil and pan fry tofu pieces for 10 minutes or until golden brown, flipping as needed.
3. In a small saucepan, combine Franks hot sauce, butter, and brown sugar over medium-low heat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until fully combined.

1. Place the crispy tofu in a baking dish or on a baking sheet and pour the sauce over top of the tofu. Toss to coat thoroughly.

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tofu cooks through and absorbs the spicy sauce.
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, and optionally garnish with green onion or a drizzle of chili garlic oil.

Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice, sautéed snow peas, or in lettuce wraps for a fresh crunch!

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How to Store the Recipe

If you’ve made a lot of tofu or want to meal prep, this dish stores beautifully:

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
• In the freezer: While freezing isn’t ideal for the tofu’s texture, you can freeze it in a sealed container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Pro tip: Keep sauce and tofu separate if you’re meal prepping. Store the spicy sauce ingredients in a small bowl or jar and reheat gently over low heat before combining.

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Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use extra firm tofu and always press it for at least 15–20 minutes. A tofu press or layers of paper towels and a heavy object will work just fine.
• Cornstarch is key to that satisfying crisp on the outside of your tofu bites. Don’t skip it!
• Use medium-high heat when pan-frying the tofu to ensure a golden brown crust.
• For more depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos to the firecracker sauce.
• Want more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or an extra splash of hot sauce.
• Swap out mayonnaise for a vegan alternative to keep the whole dish plant-based.

Ready to make your new favorite tofu recipe? With its crispy texture, bold spicy firecracker sauce, and perfect balance of sweet and savory, this tofu recipe is everything you’ve been craving. Whether you’re new to plant-based meals or a tofu aficionado, Delicious Firecracker Tofu is sure to become a staple at your table.

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