Crispy Tofu Bites
The easiest trick to make tofu more exciting and add texture is to coat it in a little cornflour and then pan fry to give it a crispy bite. This is one of my go-to’s when I want to add some extra protein to my lunches, it’s perfect throwing on as a topping to some noodles, salads or just a snack.
You can totally serve this with any of your favourite dips instead of soy sauce. Switch it up with sweet chilli, sriracha, your kitchen cupboard is your oyster! Alternatively, see the next recipe for sauce inspiration!
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Hey, I'm Verna!
About this recipe..
Ingredients
- 500g firm tofu, cut into cubes
- 50g cornflour/cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsps light soy sauce
- 2 tbsps neutral cooking oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Pair it with
Instructions
- Start by salting the tofu and letting it sit for about 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps achieve a crispier texture.
- After 5 minutes, coat all sides of the tofu cubes evenly with cornflour (cornstarch). This will give the tofu a deliciously crispy outer layer when fried.
- In a frying pan, mix together cooking oil and sesame oil. Heat the oils over medium heat until they are hot but not smoking.
- Gently add the cubed tofu to the hot pan. Pan-fry the tofu for several minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
- Just before finishing cooking, drizzle the soy sauce over the tofu and toss gently to ensure even coverage. This will infuse the tofu with a savoury flavour.
- Serve the crispy tofu immediately, optionally topped with a dollop of chilli oil. It’s perfect alongside steamed rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own.
Tips
- For extra flavour, consider marinating the tofu in soy sauce or your favourite seasonings before frying.
- Pair with your choice of vegetables for a more complete meal.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the right tofu?
For this recipe, it’s best to use firm or extra-firm tofu, as they hold their shape well during cooking and get crispy on the outside.
2. Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the coated tofu at 200°C (400°F) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
3. What oil should I use for frying?
A neutral cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil works well. Adding sesame oil enhances the flavour, so a combination is ideal.
4. Can I add spices or seasonings to the tofu?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favourite spices, such as garlic powder or paprika, to the cornflour for added flavour.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to restore crispiness.
6. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, crispy pan-fried tofu is great for meal prep! It can be added to salads, stir-fries, or grain bowls for a nutritious boost.
Video demonstration
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