Looking for an irresistible vegan dish that’s both crispy and flavorful? This Mongolian Tofu Recipe combines crispy tofu with a sweet and savory Mongolian sauce. Inspired by classic Chinese-American restaurants, this easy recipe is perfect for tofu lovers and skeptics alike. Let’s dive in!
What is Mongolian Tofu?
Mongolian Tofu is a vegan take on the popular Mongolian beef recipe found in Chinese-American and Mongolian barbecue restaurants. It features crispy tofu pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for pairing with rice or stir-fried veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s an easy recipe with simple ingredients.
- The crispy texture of tofu contrasts beautifully with the sticky Mongolian sauce.
- Perfect for fans of tofu and those new to tofu recipes series episodes.
- It’s gluten-free and customizable to your spice preferences.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Core Ingredients
- Tofu: Medium firm or extra firm tofu works best for this recipe. Freezing and thawing the tofu alters its structure, giving it a unique sponge-like texture that absorbs sauces beautifully. If you don’t have time to freeze it, extra-firm tofu straight from the package can still deliver good results.
- Cornstarch: This is key for creating a crispy exterior on the tofu. If you’re out of cornstarch, tapioca starch or potato starch are excellent substitutes and offer a similar crispiness.
- Cooking Oil: Vegetable oil is the most common choice, but coconut aminos or olive oil spray can also work, especially if you’re looking for lighter or slightly sweet flavors. For a nutty flavor, try sesame oil, but use it sparingly as it’s quite potent.
- Garlic & Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger are essential for adding depth and aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh options, garlic powder and ground ginger can be used, but the result won’t have quite the same boldness.
- Green Onions: These not only add a fresh, vibrant garnish but also contribute a subtle onion flavor to the dish. Use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor.
Substitution Ideas
- Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce is fantastic for this recipe, but for a gluten-free alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce.
- Sweeteners: Brown sugar provides the rich, caramel-like sweetness in the sauce, but you can replace it with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even coconut sugar for a slightly healthier option.
- Vegetables: While the recipe is delicious as is, adding extra vegetables can enhance the dish. Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), broccoli florets, and green beans are popular choices that pair wonderfully with the sweet and savory sauce. You can also toss in sliced carrots, snap peas, or zucchini for added variety.
This flexibility makes the recipe easy to adapt based on what you have in your pantry or your dietary preferences!
Helpful Tools for the Recipe
- Tofu Press: Helps remove excess moisture from the tofu.
- Large Skillet: Non-stick or cast iron skillet for even cooking.
- Kitchen Towel or Paper Towels: Useful for squeezing liquid from the tofu.
- Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing tofu with cornstarch.
- Small Bowl: Ideal for preparing the soy sauce mixture.
How to Make This Mongolian Tofu Recipe
Tofu Prep
- Freeze and thaw a block of tofu to enhance its texture.
- Gently squeeze out excess liquid over the sink using a kitchen towel. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent crumbling.
- Tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces and coat evenly with cornstarch in a mixing bowl.
Cooking Tofu
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Arrange tofu in a single layer and cook until golden brown on all sides, around 8–10 minutes.
- Add garlic, ginger, and green onions, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Adding Sauce
- Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and a cornstarch slurry in a small bowl.
- Pour the sauce into the pan and cook on medium heat until thickened.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your sticky Mongolian tofu on a bed of rice and garnish with sesame seeds and spring onion slices. Add a side of steamed green beans or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Mongolian Tofu Recipe
- Freeze Tofu: This gives it a spongy texture that absorbs sauces better.
- Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or chili sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make all the difference in flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the tofu freeze-thaw process.
- Using too much oil, which can make the tofu greasy.
- Cooking on low heat, preventing the tofu from crisping up.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this crispy Mongolian tofu with:
- Steamed rice or brown rice.
- Stir-fried green beans or bell peppers.
- A fresh side salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on medium heat in a skillet or use an air fryer for crispy results.
Variations to Try For Your Next Mongolian Tofu Recipe
- Add chili peppers for a spicy sauce.
- Use hoisin sauce or chili garlic sauce for a richer taste.
- Experiment with coconut aminos for a sweeter sauce.
FAQs: Mongolian Tofu Recipe
Can I use firm tofu instead of medium firm tofu?
Yes, firm tofu works well but won’t have the same spongy texture.
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Tapioca starch or brown rice flour are great alternatives.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Can I air fry the tofu?
Absolutely! Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
What vegetables pair well with this dish?
Broccoli florets, bell peppers, and green beans are great choices.
Mongolian Tofu Recipe
This crispy Mongolian tofu stir fry combines spongy tofu pieces, green onions, and a sticky Mongolian sauce. Perfect on a bed of rice for a quick, flavorful meal!
Ingredients
Tofu
- 1 block medium firm tofu, frozen and thawed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1-2 tbsp oil for cooking
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 ½ tbsp grated ginger
- 3 green onions, sliced
Sauce
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce I used the mushroom dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
Instructions
Tofu Prep
- Make sure the tofu has been frozen and thawed as this affects the texture.
- Gently squeeze any excess liquid out of the tofu. Pressing it may cause it to fall apart so it's best to do this with your hands over the sink.
- Tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces and add them into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 2 tbsp of cornstarch and toss them gently to combine.
Cooking Tofu
- In a non-stick pan on medium heat, add the oil and the tofu.
- Cook the tofu until it's golden and crispy on all sides. Around 8-10 mins.
- Next, add in the ginger, garlic and green onions and cook for another 1-2 mins.
Adding Sauce
- Now, add in the water, dark soy sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch slurry.
- Continue cooking for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the tofu with your favourite vegetables if desired on a bed of rice. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
GF: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish completely gluten free.
Tofu: Medium firm tofu is SO good in this dish as it has such a unique texture, however you can make it with firm tofu if desired.
Spice Level: Feel free to add in a hot chili or hot chili flakes to make this dish spicy.
Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the brands and specific ingredients used.
Nutrition
Serving: 250g | Calories: 225kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 400mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 3mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Conclusion: Mongolian Tofu Recipe
This crispy Mongolian tofu recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy. Whether you’re a fan of tofu or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to please your taste buds. Give it a try and let this easy recipe become a staple in your tofu recipes series episode.
I loved this tofu recipe. I used tamari instead of soy sauce to make it GF and flavor was perfect.
Thank you so much! I’m glad you loved the tofu recipe and that it turned out perfectly with tamari. I appreciate you sharing your substitution.
Very nice been eating more tofu in 2025 and loving your recipes thanks Essy
Thank you so much! I’m glad you’re enjoying incorporating more tofu into your meals this year. I appreciate you trying my recipes!