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Close up of harissa glazed tofu cubes.

Spicy Harissa Tofu

This 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!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Liv King

Ingredients
 

Crispy Tofu

  • 1 block Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu pressed and cubed
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt see note
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ½ tablespoon Olive Oil for cooking

Harissa Glaze

  • 2 tablespoons Harissa Paste see note
  • 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
  • Pinch of Salt and Pepper

Instructions

  • Start by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture. You don't need to press it long, about 15 minutes.
  • Cube the tofu and place it in a bowl. Toss the cubes with cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  • Air fryer instructions: Drizzle or spray with oil and toss again before transfering to an air fryer basket. No need to preheat. Air fry at 400°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.
  • Pan-frying instructions: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of oil. Place the tofu in the pan and cook each side for 3-4 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
  • In a medium-sized frying pan, whisk together the harissa paste, maple syrup, lemon juice, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Cook the glaze over medium heat until bubbly and slightly thickened.
  • Toss the cooked tofu in the glaze until evenly coated.
  • Serve immediately, or save for later and reheat as needed!

Notes

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.
 
Important Note about Salt: Not all salts are made equal and cannot be substituted 1:1. If you are substituting table salt for kosher salt, you will need to cut the amount called for in the recipe by at least half. 
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