Golden pan-fried tofu with fragrant scallion sauce is a vegetarian, protein-rich dish. A healthy, family recipe with fresh, clean eats appeal.
Pat the firm tofu dry with paper towels, slice into ½-inch thick rectangles, and lightly season with a pinch of salt.
Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Carefully arrange tofu slices in a single layer and pan fry undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until golden brown on the first side; flip and cook the other side for 3–4 minutes, adding the remaining oil if needed.
While tofu cooks, finely chop scallions and garlic. In a small bowl, mix scallions, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar, and crushed red pepper to create the scallion sauce.
Arrange the pan-fried tofu on a plate and spoon generous amounts of scallion sauce over the top just before serving to preserve texture.