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Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu Flavorful Plant-Based Dish

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- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed - 1/4 cup honey - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1/4 cup cornstarch - 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger - 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil - 2 green onions, sliced - Sesame seeds The key to making crispy honey garlic tofu lies in the ingredients you choose. Start with firm tofu for the best texture. This tofu holds its shape when you press and fry it. Honey gives this dish its sweet flavor. It mixes well with garlic, creating a tasty sauce. I love using fresh garlic to add a strong taste. Soy sauce gives saltiness and depth. Don't forget cornstarch! It is crucial for making tofu crispy. Coat the tofu cubes evenly with it. This helps create a crunchy outer layer. Vegetable oil is best for frying. It has a high smoke point, which is important for frying. Rice vinegar adds a tangy kick. It balances the sweetness of the honey. Fresh ginger gives a warm spice note. A touch of sesame oil adds nuttiness to the dish. For garnishes, I like to use green onions and sesame seeds. They not only add flavor but also look great on your plate. Enjoy experimenting with these ingredients to create a wonderful meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cutting the pressed tofu into cubes. Aim for bite-sized pieces. This size helps ensure even cooking. Next, pat the cubes dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key for crispiness. Use a bowl to hold the cornstarch. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch until they are coated evenly. This step creates a crunchy crust. After coating, shake off any excess cornstarch. Too much will make the tofu gummy. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil must be hot before adding the tofu. Carefully place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and crispy all over. Once done, remove the tofu and let it drain on paper towels. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir this mix continuously. Heat until the sauce is hot and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. This sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet over low heat. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the tofu. Gently toss the tofu to coat it well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the tofu to absorb all the delicious flavors. Once coated, remove the tofu from the heat. Transfer the tofu to a serving plate. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and a fresh taste to your dish. Enjoy your meal! Tofu can be soft and chewy if not prepared right. Drying tofu is key for crispiness. First, press the tofu to remove extra water. Use paper towels to pat it dry well. This step helps the tofu absorb flavors better. When frying, use a hot pan with enough oil. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Place tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry them for 4-5 minutes on each side. Flip them carefully to keep them intact. If you want a vegan option, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both provide sweetness and depth. You can also use date syrup for a rich flavor. Adjust the amount based on your taste. If you want a less sweet dish, cut back on the honey or substitute with a bit of soy sauce. Spice up your tofu by adding red pepper flakes or black pepper. Ginger adds a nice kick too. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more texture and taste. Serve the tofu over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color. Pro Tips Press Tofu Well: Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying. Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying tofu. Frying in batches ensures that the temperature of the oil remains high, leading to a better crisp. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly. Opt for freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for the best results. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the sauce depending on your personal preference for sweetness. You can also substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option. {{image_2}} You can make this dish vegan by using agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey. These sweeteners add a lovely flavor while keeping it plant-based. You can also add colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for an extra crunch. Stir-fry them with the tofu for a complete meal. If you love heat, try adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust to your liking. This will give your dish a spicy kick. Just remember to balance the heat with a bit more sweetener if needed. This way, you keep the harmony of flavors. Crispy honey garlic tofu pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. You can serve it over jasmine rice or toss it with soba noodles. It also shines in salads or grain bowls. Add some greens, nuts, or seeds for a hearty meal. This dish is flexible and fits many sides. Enjoy it your way! To store leftovers, place the crispy honey garlic tofu in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out. Make sure the tofu has cooled to room temperature before sealing. Ideal storage containers are glass or plastic with a secure lid. They keep odors in check and are easy to clean. To freeze cooked tofu, let the dish cool first. Cut it into smaller pieces for faster freezing. Place the tofu in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn. When you want to eat it, thaw the tofu overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet to regain crispiness. In the fridge, the crispy honey garlic tofu stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Check for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual texture. If it feels slimy or has changed color, it is best to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. To make your tofu crispy, follow these key techniques: - Start with firm tofu. - Press the tofu to remove excess water. - Cut the tofu into small, bite-sized cubes. - Coat each cube with cornstarch. - Heat vegetable oil in a skillet until hot. - Fry the tofu in a single layer. - Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden. These steps help create a crispy texture that you will love. Yes, you can use different types of tofu. However, I suggest using firm or extra-firm tofu. These types hold their shape better during cooking. Silken tofu is too soft and won’t give you the crisp you want. For best results, stick with firm varieties. If you need a vegan option, try these substitutes for honey: - Maple syrup - Agave nectar - Brown rice syrup These options provide sweetness and work well in the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your taste. This dish takes about 30 minutes in total: - Prep time: 15 minutes - Cooking time: 15 minutes You can have a delicious meal ready in half an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights! This blog post shared how to make delicious honey garlic tofu. We covered key ingredients like tofu, honey, and garlic, plus tips for maximum crispiness. I gave you steps to fry and glaze the tofu, making it flavorful and satisfying. Remember to explore variations like spicy options or vegan alternatives. Use all tips for storage to keep your leftovers fresh. Experiment with different flavors, and soon you'll master this tasty dish. Enjoy your cooking journey!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty plant-based dish? You’ll love this Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu! With its perfect balance of sweetness and garlic flavor, this dish is a winner for any meal. I’ll guide you through simple steps and easy tips to make your tofu crispy and delicious. Plus, we’ll explore fun variations and substitutions for a meal that fits your taste. Let’s dive in and make a dish everyone will enjoy!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Flavorful: This crispy honey garlic tofu is bursting with flavor, combining the sweetness of honey with the savory notes of garlic and soy sauce.
  2. Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a quick meal prep option.
  3. Healthy Alternative: Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein and this recipe uses wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice.
  4. Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, in a wrap, or as part of a larger meal; this honey garlic tofu fits perfectly into various cuisines.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Supporting Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

Garnishes

  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds

The key to making crispy honey garlic tofu lies in the ingredients you choose. Start with firm tofu for the best texture. This tofu holds its shape when you press and fry it.

Honey gives this dish its sweet flavor. It mixes well with garlic, creating a tasty sauce. I love using fresh garlic to add a strong taste. Soy sauce gives saltiness and depth.

Don’t forget cornstarch! It is crucial for making tofu crispy. Coat the tofu cubes evenly with it. This helps create a crunchy outer layer. Vegetable oil is best for frying. It has a high smoke point, which is important for frying.

Rice vinegar adds a tangy kick. It balances the sweetness of the honey. Fresh ginger gives a warm spice note. A touch of sesame oil adds nuttiness to the dish.

For garnishes, I like to use green onions and sesame seeds. They not only add flavor but also look great on your plate. Enjoy experimenting with these ingredients to create a wonderful meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Tofu

Start by cutting the pressed tofu into cubes. Aim for bite-sized pieces. This size helps ensure even cooking. Next, pat the cubes dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key for crispiness.

Coating the Tofu

Use a bowl to hold the cornstarch. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch until they are coated evenly. This step creates a crunchy crust. After coating, shake off any excess cornstarch. Too much will make the tofu gummy.

Frying the Tofu

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil must be hot before adding the tofu. Carefully place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and crispy all over. Once done, remove the tofu and let it drain on paper towels.

Making the Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir this mix continuously. Heat until the sauce is hot and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. This sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Glazing the Tofu

Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet over low heat. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the tofu. Gently toss the tofu to coat it well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the tofu to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Serving

Once coated, remove the tofu from the heat. Transfer the tofu to a serving plate. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and a fresh taste to your dish. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

Tofu can be soft and chewy if not prepared right. Drying tofu is key for crispiness. First, press the tofu to remove extra water. Use paper towels to pat it dry well. This step helps the tofu absorb flavors better.

When frying, use a hot pan with enough oil. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Place tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry them for 4-5 minutes on each side. Flip them carefully to keep them intact.

Honey Substitutes

If you want a vegan option, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both provide sweetness and depth. You can also use date syrup for a rich flavor. Adjust the amount based on your taste. If you want a less sweet dish, cut back on the honey or substitute with a bit of soy sauce.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Spice up your tofu by adding red pepper flakes or black pepper. Ginger adds a nice kick too. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more texture and taste. Serve the tofu over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color.

Pro Tips

  1. Press Tofu Well: Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying.
  2. Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying tofu. Frying in batches ensures that the temperature of the oil remains high, leading to a better crisp.
  3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly. Opt for freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for the best results.
  4. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the sauce depending on your personal preference for sweetness. You can also substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.

Variations

Vegan Options

You can make this dish vegan by using agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey. These sweeteners add a lovely flavor while keeping it plant-based. You can also add colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for an extra crunch. Stir-fry them with the tofu for a complete meal.

Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu

If you love heat, try adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust to your liking. This will give your dish a spicy kick. Just remember to balance the heat with a bit more sweetener if needed. This way, you keep the harmony of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy honey garlic tofu pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. You can serve it over jasmine rice or toss it with soba noodles. It also shines in salads or grain bowls. Add some greens, nuts, or seeds for a hearty meal. This dish is flexible and fits many sides. Enjoy it your way!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, place the crispy honey garlic tofu in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out. Make sure the tofu has cooled to room temperature before sealing. Ideal storage containers are glass or plastic with a secure lid. They keep odors in check and are easy to clean.

Freezing

To freeze cooked tofu, let the dish cool first. Cut it into smaller pieces for faster freezing. Place the tofu in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn. When you want to eat it, thaw the tofu overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet to regain crispiness.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the crispy honey garlic tofu stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Check for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual texture. If it feels slimy or has changed color, it is best to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.

FAQs

How do I make my tofu crispy?

To make your tofu crispy, follow these key techniques:

  • Start with firm tofu.
  • Press the tofu to remove excess water.
  • Cut the tofu into small, bite-sized cubes.
  • Coat each cube with cornstarch.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet until hot.
  • Fry the tofu in a single layer.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden.

These steps help create a crispy texture that you will love.

Can I use different types of tofu?

Yes, you can use different types of tofu. However, I suggest using firm or extra-firm tofu. These types hold their shape better during cooking. Silken tofu is too soft and won’t give you the crisp you want. For best results, stick with firm varieties.

What can I substitute for honey?

If you need a vegan option, try these substitutes for honey:

  • Maple syrup
  • Agave nectar
  • Brown rice syrup

These options provide sweetness and work well in the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your taste.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This dish takes about 30 minutes in total:

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking time: 15 minutes

You can have a delicious meal ready in half an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!

This blog post shared how to make delicious honey garlic tofu. We covered key ingredients like tofu, honey, and garlic, plus tips for maximum crispiness. I gave you steps to fry and glaze the tofu, making it flavorful and satisfying. Remember to explore variations like spicy options or vegan alternatives. Use all tips for storage to keep your leftovers fresh. Experiment with different flavors, and soon you’ll master this tasty dish. Enjoy your cooking journe

- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed - 1/4 cup honey - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1/4 cup cornstarch - 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger - 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil - 2 green onions, sliced - Sesame seeds The key to making crispy honey garlic tofu lies in the ingredients you choose. Start with firm tofu for the best texture. This tofu holds its shape when you press and fry it. Honey gives this dish its sweet flavor. It mixes well with garlic, creating a tasty sauce. I love using fresh garlic to add a strong taste. Soy sauce gives saltiness and depth. Don't forget cornstarch! It is crucial for making tofu crispy. Coat the tofu cubes evenly with it. This helps create a crunchy outer layer. Vegetable oil is best for frying. It has a high smoke point, which is important for frying. Rice vinegar adds a tangy kick. It balances the sweetness of the honey. Fresh ginger gives a warm spice note. A touch of sesame oil adds nuttiness to the dish. For garnishes, I like to use green onions and sesame seeds. They not only add flavor but also look great on your plate. Enjoy experimenting with these ingredients to create a wonderful meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cutting the pressed tofu into cubes. Aim for bite-sized pieces. This size helps ensure even cooking. Next, pat the cubes dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key for crispiness. Use a bowl to hold the cornstarch. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch until they are coated evenly. This step creates a crunchy crust. After coating, shake off any excess cornstarch. Too much will make the tofu gummy. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil must be hot before adding the tofu. Carefully place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and crispy all over. Once done, remove the tofu and let it drain on paper towels. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir this mix continuously. Heat until the sauce is hot and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. This sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet over low heat. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the tofu. Gently toss the tofu to coat it well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the tofu to absorb all the delicious flavors. Once coated, remove the tofu from the heat. Transfer the tofu to a serving plate. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and a fresh taste to your dish. Enjoy your meal! Tofu can be soft and chewy if not prepared right. Drying tofu is key for crispiness. First, press the tofu to remove extra water. Use paper towels to pat it dry well. This step helps the tofu absorb flavors better. When frying, use a hot pan with enough oil. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Place tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry them for 4-5 minutes on each side. Flip them carefully to keep them intact. If you want a vegan option, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both provide sweetness and depth. You can also use date syrup for a rich flavor. Adjust the amount based on your taste. If you want a less sweet dish, cut back on the honey or substitute with a bit of soy sauce. Spice up your tofu by adding red pepper flakes or black pepper. Ginger adds a nice kick too. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more texture and taste. Serve the tofu over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color. Pro Tips Press Tofu Well: Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying. Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying tofu. Frying in batches ensures that the temperature of the oil remains high, leading to a better crisp. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly. Opt for freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for the best results. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the sauce depending on your personal preference for sweetness. You can also substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option. {{image_2}} You can make this dish vegan by using agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey. These sweeteners add a lovely flavor while keeping it plant-based. You can also add colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for an extra crunch. Stir-fry them with the tofu for a complete meal. If you love heat, try adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust to your liking. This will give your dish a spicy kick. Just remember to balance the heat with a bit more sweetener if needed. This way, you keep the harmony of flavors. Crispy honey garlic tofu pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. You can serve it over jasmine rice or toss it with soba noodles. It also shines in salads or grain bowls. Add some greens, nuts, or seeds for a hearty meal. This dish is flexible and fits many sides. Enjoy it your way! To store leftovers, place the crispy honey garlic tofu in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out. Make sure the tofu has cooled to room temperature before sealing. Ideal storage containers are glass or plastic with a secure lid. They keep odors in check and are easy to clean. To freeze cooked tofu, let the dish cool first. Cut it into smaller pieces for faster freezing. Place the tofu in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn. When you want to eat it, thaw the tofu overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet to regain crispiness. In the fridge, the crispy honey garlic tofu stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Check for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual texture. If it feels slimy or has changed color, it is best to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. To make your tofu crispy, follow these key techniques: - Start with firm tofu. - Press the tofu to remove excess water. - Cut the tofu into small, bite-sized cubes. - Coat each cube with cornstarch. - Heat vegetable oil in a skillet until hot. - Fry the tofu in a single layer. - Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden. These steps help create a crispy texture that you will love. Yes, you can use different types of tofu. However, I suggest using firm or extra-firm tofu. These types hold their shape better during cooking. Silken tofu is too soft and won’t give you the crisp you want. For best results, stick with firm varieties. If you need a vegan option, try these substitutes for honey: - Maple syrup - Agave nectar - Brown rice syrup These options provide sweetness and work well in the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your taste. This dish takes about 30 minutes in total: - Prep time: 15 minutes - Cooking time: 15 minutes You can have a delicious meal ready in half an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights! This blog post shared how to make delicious honey garlic tofu. We covered key ingredients like tofu, honey, and garlic, plus tips for maximum crispiness. I gave you steps to fry and glaze the tofu, making it flavorful and satisfying. Remember to explore variations like spicy options or vegan alternatives. Use all tips for storage to keep your leftovers fresh. Experiment with different flavors, and soon you'll master this tasty dish. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu

A delicious and crispy tofu dish glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 0.25 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 0.5 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 pieces green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • to taste sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Tofu: Start by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry carefully with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Coat Tofu: Place the cornstarch in a bowl and coat the tofu cubes evenly. Shake off any excess cornstarch. This will help create a crispy exterior.
  • Fry Tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
  • Prepare Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir continuously until the mixture is hot and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Glaze Tofu: Once the sauce is ready, add the crispy tofu back into the skillet over low heat. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the tofu and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors.
  • Serve: Once coated, remove the tofu from the heat. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Notes

Ensure the tofu is well-pressed to achieve maximum crispiness.
Keyword crispy, honey garlic, tofu, vegetarian

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