Crispy fried tofu is a delicious and versatile dish that can be added to a variety of meals. Making it can be a quick and easy process, or it can be a bit more labor-intensive, depending on the desired result. This article will provide a guide to creating the perfect crispy fried tofu, no matter what your experience level or time constraints may be. We will cover everything from choosing the right tofu to the best methods for achieving that perfect crispy texture. So, get ready to elevate your next meal with this culinary delight!
Let's cook with our recipes!
CRISPY FRIED TOFU
Deep-fried tofu that is crisp and golden brown on the outside and amazingly white and soft on the inside! Serve with your favorite Asian dish or dipping sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to several days or freeze for several weeks.
Provided by Sarah Dipity
Categories Appetizers and Snacks
Time 35m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- Wrap tofu in a clean towel and place onto a plate. Set another plate on top, and place a 3- to 5-pound weight on top. Press tofu for about 20 minutes; drain and discard the accumulated liquid.
- Cut tofu into 1-inch by 2-inch chunks. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt onto one slide; flip over and sprinkle remaining 1/4 teaspoon on the other.
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet. To test if the oil is ready, dip a chopstick or wooden spoon in it; if bubbles rise, it is ready. If the oil smokes, it is too hot.
- Gently place 5 to 8 pieces of tofu at a time in hot oil using metal tongs. Be very careful as oil may splatter; use a splatter guard if possible. Fry tofu until golden, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Drain tofu on a plate lined with several paper towels. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 161.1 calories, Carbohydrate 1.6 g, Fat 15 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 6.8 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sodium 296.6 mg, Sugar 0.3 g
TWICE-COOKED CRISPY FRIED TOFU
When I can't get kosher meat, I simply do without but today I just craved something meaty. I had a pack of extra-firm tofu in the fridge and this is what I did with it. Baking the tofu before frying helps to crisp it up and imparts the meatiness I was seeking. My BFF thought it was fish at first glance. He is not into foreign foods but he was very enthusiastic about these yummy little bites when served with dipping sauce.
Provided by earthmotherfromnj
Categories 100+ Everyday Cooking Recipes Vegetarian Protein Tofu
Time 59m
Yield 2
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly oil a baking sheet.
- Pat tofu dry with a paper towel. Slice in half lengthwise. Cut each half into 1/4-inch pieces, about 14 pieces in total. Place tofu between paper towels and drain, about 20 minutes.
- Season tofu with salt and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch, paprika, thyme, and seasoned salt together to make cornstarch seasoning.
- Pat any excess moisture off the tofu. Sprinkle cornstarch seasoning evenly over top. Arrange on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until tofu starts to brown, about 7 minutes. Turn over and continue baking until the upper side is darkened, about 3 minutes more.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and fry until golden-brown, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 280.5 calories, Carbohydrate 15.6 g, Fat 17.7 g, Fiber 1 g, Protein 18.5 g, SaturatedFat 2.6 g, Sodium 209.4 mg, Sugar 0.9 g
Tips for Crispy Fried Tofu:
- Choose the right tofu. Extra-firm or firm tofu is best for frying. It has a denser texture that will hold up better in the fryer.
- Press the tofu. This will help to remove excess moisture from the tofu, which will make it crispier. To press the tofu, wrap it in a few layers of paper towels and place it on a plate. Place another plate on top of the tofu and weigh it down with something heavy, such as a can of beans or a heavy skillet. Let the tofu press for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Cut the tofu into even-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes or slices.
- Coat the tofu in cornstarch. This will help to create a crispy coating. Place the tofu in a bowl and toss it with cornstarch until it is evenly coated.
- Shallow fry the tofu. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu and cook it for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the tofu immediately. Crispy fried tofu is best served hot. You can serve it with a variety of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or peanut sauce.
Conclusion:
Crispy fried tofu is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. It is a great way to add protein and flavor to your meals. With a little planning and preparation, you can easily make crispy fried tofu at home. So next time you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, give crispy fried tofu a try!
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