Prepare the Tofu:

1. Press the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the tofu block between two clean kitchen towels or paper towels, then set a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet, on top. Let it press for at least 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial to achieving crispy tofu.

2. Cut the Tofu: Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch in size. This allows for more surface area to become crispy when cooked.

3. Coat the Tofu: In a large bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This will help the tofu achieve that crispy exterior. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

4. Heat the Oil: In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat the olive oil (or vegetable oil) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. If needed, fry the tofu in batches.

5. Cook the Tofu: Fry the tofu cubes for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be patient and let the tofu cook undisturbed on each side for a few minutes before flipping. This ensures a crispy crust forms. Once the tofu is crisp and golden on all sides, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce:

6. Combine Sauce Ingredients: While the tofu is cooking, make the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, water, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

7. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the simmering sauce and whisk to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or acidity if needed. If you like a sweeter sauce, add more honey or maple syrup. If you prefer it tangier, add a little more rice vinegar.

Assemble the Dish:

9. Toss the Tofu in Sauce: Once the tofu is crispy and the sauce has thickened, return the tofu to the skillet. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the tofu and toss gently to coat the tofu evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the sauce and become even more flavorful.

10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the tofu from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve immediately with steamed rice, vegetables, or in lettuce wraps.