Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Edamame

This Pan Fried Tofu with Edamame recipe will have you enjoying tofu in a new way. The homemade stir-fry sauce gives so much flavor to this easy skillet tofu. This is going to become a regular on your weekly menu.

Tofu might not be a super popular type of food, and I get it. I really do. Some people don't like the texture, and others don't love the smell. But, I think that if you prepare it correctly, tofu can be a really healthy source of protein that actually tastes pretty delicious too!

I personally like tofu when it is crispy on the outside and filled with spicy and aromatic flavors. Pan-frying the tofu is the way to do just that! The outside gets super crispy and the tofu soaks up all the flavor of the pan sauce. When you pair it with something crunchy, like edamame, you have an unbeatable combination!

If you haven't cooked with tofu often, make sure to check out all the tips on cooking tofu in this post. We'll show you how to press it to remove any excess liquid, infuse it with flavor, and then fry it in a skillet until the outside is super crispy and caramelized. 

Key Ingredients and Easy Swaps

This recipe uses pretty basic ingredients - but the combination is incredible! Here is what you will need from the store before you begin.

• Tofu: Use extra-firm tofu and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Firm tofu will work as well but the end result won’t be quite as crispy. You could also use tempeh or a vegetarian meat substitute.
• Onion: Red onion is slightly sweeter and has a bolder flavor, but you can also substitute it with white or yellow onion. If you don't love onions, you could leave them out or finish the dish with fresh green onion or chives for a more mild onion flavor.
• Oil: Use both vegetable and sesame oil. You can substitute either avocado or olive oil for vegetable oil. Just make sure it has a high burning point since we will be cooking at high temperatures. 
• Garlic: Always use fresh garlic cloves when you make this recipe. The garlic powder won't have the same flavor or aroma.
• Spices: I simply used salt and pepper. If you want it to have a little more heat, you can add a few sprinkles of red pepper flakes.
• Soy Sauce: To keep the salt amount low, use low-sodium soy sauce. If you are gluten-free, substitute with coconut aminos!
• Brown Sugar: You only need a little bit to sweeten this sauce. If you are on a low-carb diet, substitute with Stevia. Honey or maple syrup also works.
• White Vinegar: If you don't have white vinegar, you can use rice vinegar instead.

Note: For a full list of ingredients and detailed instructions on how to make this recipe, take a look at the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post!

What To Serve with Tofu

Since this is an Asian-inspired meal, you can serve it with your favorite Asian side dishes or go with something simple like steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.

I love these fresh spring rolls - they are packed with veggies and have an amazing dipping sauce. These baked egg rolls make a great crispy option or could be an appetizer.

If you love lo mein, then make spinach and mushroom lo mein. That will round out this meal, making it incredibly filling and healthy at the same time.

One last option is some extra veggies. Consider making this delicious Stir Fried Bok Choy or Stir Fried Chinese Broccoli.

How to Pan Fry Tofu

Follow these tips to make sure that the tofu turns out crispy and tangy every single time!

• Always press the tofu before stir-frying it to remove the extra water from inside of it. This way, the tofu will keep its shape as it fries. If you don't remove all the water, the tofu might fall apart as you try to cook it in the skillet. If you don't have a tofu press, then cut the tofu into horizontal planks and wrap in a clean kitchen towel. Place something heavy on top and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. 
• Whenever possible, choose extra firm tofu since it has the least amount of water. 
• Watch the tofu closely while frying. It only takes about 3 minutes for it to sear. Then, flip it over as soon as it becomes crispy.
• Make sure to use a hot pan when frying tofu or it won't get that crispy exterior, it will just brown.
• Always use a nonstick skillet with tofu since it can stick very easily. 
• For an extra crispy exterior, toss the tofu in cornstarch before frying it. 
• Whisk the ingredients for the sauce really well before you add them to the skillet. Make sure the brown sugar is incorporated evenly in the sauce.