Name: Copycat Bang Bang Tofu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu (drained and pressed); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup; 1 green onion (thinly sliced); Sesame seeds (for garnish (optional))

Spread the love

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Craving a crispy tofu dish packed with flavor? Copycat Bang Bang Tofu is the perfect Spicy Tofu Appetizer, featuring golden-fried tofu cubes coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s downright irresistible. Whether served as a main dish or a party snack, this easy-to-make recipe brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table. Whip up this Spicy Tofu Appetizer for a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love Copycat Bang Bang Tofu

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and spicy. Copycat Bang Bang Tofu is a Spicy Tofu Appetizer that pairs crunchy tofu with a tangy, sweet, and fiery sauce made with Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and honey. It’s simple to prepare with everyday ingredients, making it ideal for quick dinners, appetizers, or meal prep. This dish is a go-to in my kitchen for its versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor.

Ingredients for Copycat Bang Bang Tofu

Here’s what you’ll need for Copycat Bang Bang Tofu (serves 4):

For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
For Garnish (optional):
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds

Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Paper towels
Tongs or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Tips

Tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape; press for 15–30 minutes to remove excess water.
Cornstarch: Ensures a crispy coating; arrowroot powder can substitute.
Sriracha: Adjust to taste for desired heat level.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium for better control of saltiness.
Honey: Agave syrup works for a vegan option.

Directions for Copycat Bang Bang Tofu

Let’s make this irresistible Copycat Bang Bang Tofu!

Prepare the Tofu

I cut the pressed tofu block into 1-inch cubes.
In a shallow bowl, I coat each cube thoroughly with ½ cup cornstarch, ensuring an even coating for maximum crispiness.

Fry the Tofu

I heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
I carefully add the coated tofu cubes, frying them for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
I remove them and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a mixing bowl, I combine ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce, and 1 tbsp honey (or agave syrup).
I whisk until smooth and creamy, adjusting Sriracha for extra heat if desired.

Coat and Serve

I toss the fried tofu cubes in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
I transfer the Copycat Bang Bang Tofu to a serving dish, garnishing with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a flavor boost.
I serve hot for the best texture and taste.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 20g carbs, 10g protein, 20g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Copycat Bang Bang Tofu

Try these twists on Copycat Bang Bang Tofu:

Extra Spicy: Add 1 tsp chili flakes to the sauce for a fiery Spicy Tofu Appetizer.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free Spicy Tofu Appetizer.
Baked Option: Bake tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter dish.
Veggie Boost: Serve with steamed broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Peanut Twist: Add 1 tbsp peanut butter to the sauce for a nutty flavor.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo for a veggie-packed meal.
Serve with jasmine rice or a side salad for a complete Spicy Tofu Appetizer plate.
Offer at a party with chopsticks and napkins for a fun, shareable snack.

Storage

I store leftover Copycat Bang Bang Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. To reheat, I place the tofu in a hot skillet with a touch of oil or use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. The Bang Bang sauce can be stored separately in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week; I stir well before using. I avoid freezing, as the tofu’s texture may become soggy.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Serve Copycat Bang Bang Tofu on a vibrant platter with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color.
Garnish: Add extra green onions or a drizzle of Sriracha for a bold look.
Pairing: Enjoy with iced green tea, a light lager, or sparkling water to complement Copycat Bang Bang Tofu.
Temperature: Serve hot for the best crispy texture.
Portion Size: About 4–5 tofu cubes per person for an appetizer or 8–10 for a main dish.

FAQs About Copycat Bang Bang Tofu

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

How do I press tofu?
To press tofu, simply place the block of tofu on a plate, cover it with a clean towel or paper towels, and place a weight (like a heavy pot or pan) on top. Let it sit for about 15–30 minutes to remove excess water.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it’s golden and crispy.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish works well for meal prep! Simply store the tofu and sauce separately, then assemble and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use other sauces for variation?
Definitely! You could experiment with adding ingredients like hoisin sauce, peanut butter, or even a bit of lime juice to change up the flavor profile of the sauce.

More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love

Conclusion

This Copycat Bang Bang Tofu is a crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with flavor, crispy texture, and just the right amount of heat. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or as an appetizer, it’s sure to be a favorite. The simple ingredients and easy steps make it an ideal dish to whip up for lunch, dinner, or even a party snack. Enjoy!