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EASY LAZY SKILLET TOFU (OIL-FREE) - QUICK & FLAVORFUL!

This Easy Lazy Skillet Tofu is crispy, flavorful, oil-free, and ready in just 10 minutes! It's perfect for bowls, wraps, salads, or as a snack. It's also whole-food plant-based (WFPB), vegan, and gluten-free!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2 to 3 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu (14 oz / 400g, pressed)
  • 2 to 3 Tbsp coconut aminos
  • 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or to taste)
  • 1 to 2 tsp nutritional yeast (optional, or smoked paprika, black pepper, or chili flakes for extra flavor)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Tofu: If you have time, press the tofu for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture—this helps create a crispier texture. Then slice it into thick rectangular planks, about the size of a finger. This cut gives you more surface area for browning, allowing the tofu to soak up more flavor.
  • Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together the coconut aminos, garlic salt, and any optional seasonings you’d like to use, such as nutritional yeast, a pinch of smoked paprika, black pepper, or chili flakes. Set the sauce aside.
  • Heat the Skillet: Preheat a seasoned cast iron skillet (or a good non-stick pan) over medium heat. If your pan is well seasoned, no oil is needed.
  • Cook the First Side: Add the tofu cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes. This allows a golden crust to form on the bottom—resist the urge to stir!
  • Flip and Cook the Other Side: Flip the tofu pieces using a spatula and cook for another 4–5 minutes until golden and slightly crispy on the second side.
  • Add the Sauce: Drizzle the prepared sauce over the tofu. Gently toss to coat all the pieces evenly, making sure every bite is infused with flavor.
  • Caramelize: Cook for one more minute, flipping gently. The coconut aminos will caramelize slightly, coating the tofu with a savory glaze.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tofu hot in bowls, wraps, or salads—or just eat it straight from the pan while it’s warm and crispy!

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu: While optional, pressing removes extra moisture and makes the tofu crispier when cooked.
  • Skillet matters: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet or a quality non-stick pan works best for oil-free cooking.
  • Flavor boosters: Add a dash of smoked paprika for smoky flavor, chili flakes for heat, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory touch.
  • Serving ideas: It's delicious over brown rice or quinoa, in wraps, Buddha bowls, or even tucked into a sandwich!
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a dry skillet to refresh the texture.