### Honey Garlic Tofu Recipe

#### Description
Enjoy a deliciously crispy Honey Garlic Tofu that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to any meal. This dish features golden-brown tofu coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds.

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### Ingredients
– **Tofu Preparation:**
– 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

– **Honey Garlic Sauce:**
– 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

– **Garnish:**
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds

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### Instructions

#### Preparing the Tofu
1. **Press the Tofu:** Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. **Cut the Tofu:** After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
3. **Coat with Cornstarch:** In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.

#### Making the Honey Garlic Sauce
4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, mix honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. **Heat the Sauce:** Cook over medium heat until it simmers gently, stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

#### Frying the Tofu
6. **Heat Oil:** In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
7. **Fry Tofu:** Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer, frying in batches if necessary. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

#### Combining Tofu and Sauce
8. **Mix Tofu and Sauce:** In a large mixing bowl, add the crispy tofu and pour the honey garlic sauce over it. Gently toss to coat.
9. **Caramelize (Optional):** For a slightly caramelized sauce, return the coated tofu to the skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes.

#### Serving the Dish
10. **Transfer to Platter:** Move the coated tofu to a serving platter.
11. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
12. **Serve:** Enjoy warm, either on its own or over steamed rice or quinoa, alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad.

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### Notes
– **Pressing Tofu:** Ensure to press the tofu well for maximum crispiness.
– **Cornstarch Coating:** This is essential for achieving a crunchy texture.
– **Adjust Sweetness:** Feel free to modify the sweetness of the sauce to your liking.
– **Gluten-Free Option:** Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.
– **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet for best results.

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### Prep Time
15 minutes (plus 20 minutes for pressing tofu)

### Cook Time
20 minutes

### Total Time
55 minutes

### Yield
Serves 4