How to Make Pineapple Glazed Tofu – Sweet and Savory Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this pineapple glazed tofu. I was craving something bold that balanced that perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory—and honestly, I wasn’t sure if tofu could deliver. But after a few experiments in the kitchen, I landed on this gem of a recipe, and let me tell you, it was a total game-changer!

Imagine this: crispy, golden tofu bites coated in a thick, glossy pineapple glaze, bursting with tropical sweetness and just a hint of savory umami goodness. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, and the best part? It’s entirely plant-based, protein-rich, and ridiculously easy to make.

If you’ve ever struggled with making tofu exciting, this recipe is your solution. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or someone still on the fence about it, I promise this dish will win you over. Gather your ingredients, and let’s start cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Glazed Tofu Recipe

• Unbelievable Flavor Combo: Sweet, tangy pineapple meets rich, umami-packed soy sauce for a mind-blowing bite every time.
• Crispy Yet Saucy: Coating the tofu in cornstarch before cooking ensures a crispy shell that holds onto the glaze beautifully.
• Easy and Quick: You don’t need fancy ingredients—just simple pantry staples and a few fresh ones.
• 100% Vegan and Protein-Rich: This dish satisfies taste buds and nutritional needs!

Ingredients for Pineapple Glazed Tofu

Tofu and Coating:

• Firm or extra-firm tofu – for the best texture and crispiness
• Cornstarch – to give the tofu a light and crispy coating
• Sesame oil – adds a rich, nutty flavor while frying

Pineapple Glaze:

• Pineapple juice (fresh or canned) – the star ingredient for a sweet and tangy glaze
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – brings deep umami richness to balance the sweetness
• Maple syrup (or agave nectar) – a natural sweetener to enhance the glaze
• Garlic – for an aromatic, savory depth
• Fresh ginger – adds warmth and a little spice
• Rice vinegar – gives the sauce a slight tang for balance
• Red pepper flakes (optional) are perfect for adding a bit of spice for those who enjoy some heat.

Garnishes & Serving Suggestions:

• Sesame seeds – for a slight crunch and extra flavor
• Green onions – bring a fresh taste and a burst of color to your dish.
• Bell peppers – for extra crunch and sweetness
• Steamed jasmine or brown rice – a perfect pairing for soaking up the glaze

How to Make the Best Pineapple Glazed Tofu

1. Preparing the Tofu

• Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
• Cut into bite-sized cubes and toss in cornstarch until evenly coated. This step is the secret to crispy tofu!
• Heat sesame oil over medium-high heat and pan-fry the tofu until golden brown on all sides. Bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning it halfway through.

2. Making the Pineapple Glaze

• Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar in a small saucepan.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it reduce slightly.
• Stir in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick (if using), and continue to simmer until thickened.

3. Coating the Tofu in a Glaze

• Once the tofu is crispy, transfer it to the pan with the glaze.
• Stir well to coat each tofu piece evenly, allowing it to soak up all that sweet and savory goodness.
• Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce clings to the tofu perfectly.

4. Serving Suggestions

• Serve immediately over steamed jasmine or brown rice.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for extra flavor and crunch.
• Pair with stir-fried bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to round out the meal.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Glazed Tofu

• Press That Tofu! Less moisture = crispier bites. Don’t skip this step!
• Want it crispier? Use an air fryer at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Adjust the sweetness to taste—use more soy sauce if you prefer a savory dish.
• Love heat? Add a drizzle of Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne to spice things up!

Variations and Customizations

1. Gluten-Free Option

Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

2. Extra Veggies

Stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for more texture and nutrients.

3. Baked Version

If you want an oil-free option, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Different Proteins

Swap tofu for tempeh, seitan, or even chickpeas for a fun twist.

FAQ – Your Pineapple Glazed Tofu Questions Answered

Q1: How do I store and reheat pineapple glazed tofu?

• Keep any leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible!

Q2: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of juice?

Absolutely! Blend fresh pineapple with a bit of water to make your juice.

Q3: What can I serve with pineapple glazed tofu?

Serve over rice, quinoa, or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

Q4: How do I make this dish less sweet?

Reduce the maple syrup/agave and use unsweetened pineapple juice.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Tangy Tofu Dish to Love

There’s nothing quite like homemade pineapple glazed tofu. It’s crispy, sticky, sweet, and savory all at once—the kind of meal that keeps you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). If you’ve been looking for a delicious, plant-based, easy, yet impressive recipe, this one is for you.

I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Drop a comment, share your tweaks, or tag me if you post it on social media. Let’s spread the love for delicious, homemade tofu dishes. Happy cooking!