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Char Siew Tofu
Lunch • Singapore
How to Make Char Siew Tofu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Char Siew Tofu is a delicious Singaporean vegetarian dish inspired by the iconic Char Siew (barbecued pork) found in local kopitiams and hawker centres. This fusion recipe replaces meat with firm tofu, marinated and roasted in a sweet, savoury, and aromatic Char Siew-style glaze. The result is a protein-packed meal with the familiar taste that Singaporeans love—perfect for those seeking meat-free alternatives without sacrificing flavour. Rooted in Singapore’s Chinese community, Char Siew Tofu is a modern adaptation reflecting the city’s vibrant culinary landscape and health-conscious food trends. It’s a favourite for lunch, especially among vegetarians and those watching their calories, thanks to its balanced macros and reduced fat content. The sweet and smoky marinade, combined with the soft yet crisp tofu, makes this dish an irresistible option for anyone craving local flavours. Enjoyed across Singapore, Char Siew Tofu showcases hawker culture’s creativity and the city’s embrace of fusion cuisine. Whether you’re at a busy kopitiam or preparing this dish at home, it embodies the spirit of Singaporean food—bold, accessible, and always evolving.
Ingredients(for 1 plate (approx. 220g per serving, as served in Singapore kopitiams))
- 300g Firm tofu (tau kwa)
- 2 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce (light soy)
- 1 tbsp Hoisin sauce (for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp Maple syrup (healthier sugar substitute)
- 1/2 tsp Five spice powder (wu xiang fen)
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic (local garlic)
- 1 tsp Sesame oil (for aroma)
- a pinch Red food colouring (optional, for authentic colour) - optional
- 2 stalks, chopped Spring onions (for garnish)
- 50g, sliced Cucumber (for side)
Instructions
- 1
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Slice into thick slabs (about 1cm).
5 minutes
Press tofu using a clean kitchen towel for better caramelization.
- 2
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, five spice powder, minced garlic, sesame oil, and food colouring.
3 minutes
Stir marinade thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- 3
Gently coat tofu slabs with the marinade. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinate longer for deeper flavour; 30 minutes is ideal.
- 4
Preheat oven or air fryer to 200°C. Place tofu on a lined tray. Roast or air fry for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway for even browning.
20 minutes
Air fryer yields crispier edges with less oil.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it swaps high-fat pork for tofu, reducing calories and saturated fats. The use of air frying or roasting instead of deep frying minimizes oil, and the inclusion of vegetables boosts fibre and micronutrients. Char Siew Tofu fits well into weight management and diabetic diets, offering wholesome, local flavours with a health-conscious twist.
Char Siew Tofu is rich in plant-based protein from tau kwa (firm tofu), making it ideal for vegetarians. The marinade uses low-sodium soy sauce and maple syrup for reduced salt and sugar, supporting heart health. Five spice powder and garlic add antioxidants, while cucumber and spring onions provide vitamins and fibre. Each serving is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, offering balanced macros for a nutritious lunch.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Press tofu thoroughly for best texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Marinate overnight for deeper flavour.
- 💡Tip 3: Use an air fryer for healthier, crispy tofu without excess oil.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |





