Spicy Harissa Tofu

This vegan Spicy Harissa Tofu is made with firm tofu and a simple 4-ingredient harissa glaze and comes together in under 30 minutes. It's an easy option for busy weeknights or meal prep and works well in grain bowls, wraps, and salads!

Made with a short list of ingredients, this harissa tofu is easy to prepare and simple to adjust depending on how spicy you like it.

The tofu is well seasoned and cooks up with lightly crisp edges, especially in the air fryer, though it can also be pan-fried if preferred.

It's a great option when you want bold flavor without committing to a long marinade.

Ingredients

This maple harissa tofu is made with just a few simple ingredients and comes together with minimal effort.

Crispy tofu cubes are coated in a sweet and spicy harissa glaze, creating a saucy dish that's full of flavor! It's easy to make and enjoy in a variety of ways.

Firm Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works well, but it should be pressed for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. If you want to skip pressing, use super-firm tofu.

Cornstarch: Helps give the tofu a light, crispy coating when cooked.

Seasonings: A simple blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper adds flavor to the tofu.

Harissa Paste: This North African chili and spice paste is the star of the dish. Heat levels vary by brand (I used Trader Joe's), so be cautious the first time you make it.

Maple Syrup: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.

Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and keeps the glaze fresh.

Soy Sauce: Brings savory umami and depth to the glaze.

Pinch of Salt and Pepper: Optional, adjust to taste.

See recipe card for quantities.

Helpful Equipment

I use and recommend the Tofuture tofu press. It's not required, but it makes pressing tofu much faster and easier than stacking heavy dishes.

How to Make This Recipe

The tofu is coated in a simple spice mix, cooked until crisp, and finished with a flavorful harissa glaze!

It'sperfect for tossing into bowls, wraps, or enjoying on its own.

The full written recipe can be found in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Cube the tofu and place it in a bowl. Add cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Toss until evenly coated. If air frying, add a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 3: Toss again.

Step 4: Air fry at 400°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy (see recipe card for pan-frying instructions).

Step 5: In a medium-sized frying pan, whisk together the harissa paste, maple syrup, lemon juice, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 6: Cook the glaze over medium heat until bubbly and slightly thickened.

Step 7: Toss the cooked tofu in the glaze until evenly coated.

Substitutions & Variations

Adjust the heat: Some harissa pastes are spicier than others. If you want a milder tofu, start with half the amount and taste before adding more. For extra spice, add a bit more harissa, but mix the sauce and taste as you go.

Swap the soy sauce: Tamari works well for a gluten-free option, or you can leave it out and add a bigger pinch of salt and pepper. The soy sauce adds savory umami and helps balance the heat, so I recommend it if you have it!

Sweetener options: Maple syrup balances the spice nicely, so I don't recommend skipping it. If needed, you can swap it for agave syrup.

Cooking method: The air fryer gives the tofu the best texture, but you can also pan-fry or bake it in the oven.

Serving Ideas

This harissa glazed tofu is versatile and works well served in a variety of different ways!

• Grain bowls: Toss it over rice, quinoa, or couscous with roasted or fresh veggies for a quick, balanced meal.
• Wraps and sandwiches: Add it to a tortilla with greens, veggies, and hummus, or tahini dill dressing.
• In a pita: Serve it in a pita with cucumber, tomato, pickled red onions, and a vegan yogurt sauce for a quick lunch!
• Salads: Add it on top of a salad or alongside this creamy vegan cucumber salad.
• Simple dinner: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables and rice for a 30-minute weeknight meal.

Tips & Tricks

Press the tofu: Pressing tofu removes excess water so it crisps up nicely. Use a tofu press or wrap it in paper towels and set something heavy on top for at least 15 minutes.

Adjust the spice: Harissa paste can vary in heat. Start with half the amount if you are worried about it being too hot, then taste and add more if needed!

Storage

Storage: This spicy tofu is great for meal prep and keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Leftovers note: The tofu absorbs the glaze, so it won't stay saucy like when it's freshly cooked. Don't worry though, it still tastes delicious the next day! 

Reheating: Reheat in a pan, oven, or air fryer until warmed through. 

Freezing: Freezing isn't recommended.

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