Step 1: Press the tofu. Drain the block of tofu and wrap it in a few layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Place something heavy on top (like a cast iron pan or a few cookbooks) and let it press for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to remove excess water. This is crucial for crispy tofu!
Step 2: Prepare the tofu for frying. Once pressed, unwrap the tofu and cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the tofu. Heat the neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove the crispy tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 4: Prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Thicken the sauce. In the same skillet (no need to clean), reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the honey garlic sauce mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry, whisking constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Combine tofu and sauce. Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet with the thickened sauce. Gently toss the tofu to coat each piece thoroughly in the sticky honey garlic sauce.
Step 7: Serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over cooked rice, noodles, or with your favorite steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious crispy honey garlic tofu!