Crispy Soy & Garlic Tofu Bites
Crispy tofu bites are a delicious and easy way to add texture and protein to any meal.
Coated in cornflour and pan-fried to golden perfection, these tofu cubes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Whether paired with rice, noodles, or enjoyed on their own, they’re a versatile dish that’s sure to satisfy!
Hey, I'm Verna!
About this recipe
Looking for a quick, delicious way to elevate your tofu game?
Crispy tofu bites are the perfect solution. With just a simple coating of cornflour and a quick pan-fry, you can transform plain tofu into a crunchy, satisfying treat.
Whether you’re adding them to noodles, salads, or enjoying them as a snack, these crispy bites are a great way to pack in some extra protein.
How To Get The Crispiest Tofu?
Crispy tofu is all about that perfect crunch.
When coated in cornflour and fried, the tofu’s outer layer turns golden and crispy, while the inside stays soft and tender. It’s this contrast in textures that makes crispy tofu so irresistible!
It's also a great base for flavour, absorbing the seasoning or sauces you pair it with - making it incredibly versatile for all sorts of dishes.
Why Tofu Is a Great Ingredient
Tofu is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile.
Made from soybeans, it’s an excellent source of plant-based protein and is packed with nutrients like iron and calcium.
It takes on the flavour of whatever it’s cooked with, which makes it an ideal ingredient for all types of recipes.
Fun fact: Tofu has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, dating back to ancient China. It’s made by curdling soy milk and pressing it into blocks, much like cheese.
These crispy tofu bites are perfect for:
- Adding protein to dishes like noodles or salads
- Snacking on their own
- Pairing with your favourite dipping sauces, from soy sauce to sweet chilli or sriracha
Crispy tofu is easy to make and super adaptable to whatever flavours you’re craving, making it a great addition to any meal!
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
1. Salt the Tofu:
Start by salting the tofu and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, making the tofu crispier when cooked.
2. Coat with Cornflour:
After 5 minutes, coat all sides of the tofu cubes evenly with cornflour (cornstarch). This gives the tofu a crispy outer layer when fried.
3. Prepare the Pan:
In a frying pan, combine cooking oil and sesame oil. Heat the oils over medium heat until they’re hot but not smoking.
4. Fry the Tofu:
Carefully add the tofu cubes to the hot pan. Fry for several minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
5. Add Soy Sauce:
Just before the tofu is done, drizzle soy sauce over it and toss gently to coat. This adds a savoury flavour to the crispy tofu.
6. Serve:
Serve the crispy tofu immediately. It’s great on its own, or you can pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or veggies.
Optional: top with a dollop of chilli oil for extra flavour.
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
Leave a comment
Like this recipe?
This recipe is featured in my debut cookbook "Have You Eaten?", if you liked this recipe, then I'd encourage you to buy my cookbook for even more exclusive and delicious recipes!
.webp)
More tasty recipe ideas for you
If you liked this recipe then you might like some of these below! Or if you're looking for more inspiration, my cookbook has dozens of exclusive meals not on my website!
