Fried tofu is one of those culinary delights that can satisfy a variety of cravings while being incredibly versatile. Whether you are looking to add protein to a meal, create a hearty snack, or build a delicious plant-based dish, fried tofu can do it all. With its crispy exterior and soft interior, it absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a favorite among both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. In this article, we will explore everything there is to know about making the perfect fried tofu at home, including tips, tricks, and delicious serving ideas.
Reasons to Love Fried Tofu
Fried tofu is not just a trendy food option; it has many reasons to be loved. Here are a few:
- Versatile Ingredient: Fried tofu can be added to salads, stir-fries, or enjoyed on its own with a dipping sauce.
- Texture Delight: The crispy exterior combined with the creamy interior provides a delightful texture contrast.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, fried tofu is simple to whip up.
- Healthy Option: Tofu is a great source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet.
Ingredient Notes
To create delicious fried tofu, you will need the following ingredients:
- 14 ounces of extra-firm tofu: This variety holds its shape well during frying and has a denser texture.
- 3/4 teaspoons of salt: Enhances the flavor of the tofu.
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: Adds a little kick.
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch: This is the secret to achieving a super crispy crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and enhances the overall taste.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil: Use avocado or canola oil for frying. These oils have high smoke points and neutral flavors.
Equipment Breakdown
Before you get started, make sure you have the necessary equipment:
- Cutting board: For cutting the tofu into cubes.
- Sharp knife: Essential for evenly slicing the tofu.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the seasonings and cornstarch.
- Frying pan or skillet: A non-stick pan works best for frying the tofu.
- Spatula: To flip the tofu and ensure even cooking.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
Mastering Fried Tofu: How-To
Fried tofu is simple to make. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy tofu every time.
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top, such as a skillet or a few cans. Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes.
Step 2: Cut the Tofu
After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces. This size will ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Tofu
Add the tofu cubes to the seasoning mixture and gently toss until all the pieces are evenly coated. Make sure not to break the tofu.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or skillet, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of tofu into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Step 6: Fry the Tofu
Carefully add the coated tofu cubes to the hot oil in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to fry in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Once the tofu is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or incorporate it into other dishes like Golden Coconut Broth Bowls With Crispy Tofu or Sweet Chili Garlic Tofu Bowls With Pickled Veg.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, fried tofu can be a great option. Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Use almond flour instead of cornstarch for a lower-carb coating.
- Pair fried tofu with low-carb vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
- Serve with a sugar-free dipping sauce or homemade low-carb dressing.
What Not to Do
To ensure your fried tofu turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t skip the pressing step; excess moisture can make the tofu soggy.
- Avoid using too much oil; you want a shallow layer to fry, not deep-fry the tofu.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this will cause the tofu to steam instead of fry, leading to less crispiness.
- Don’t leave the tofu in the oil for too long; it can become hard and dry if overcooked.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Fried tofu is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it in advance if needed. Here’s how:
Store leftover fried tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a hot skillet with a little oil for about 5 minutes, turning it frequently to maintain crispiness.
If you want to prepare the tofu ahead of time, follow the pressing and cutting steps, then store the uncooked, coated tofu in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.
Ask & Learn
Can I use soft tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?
While you can use soft tofu, it will not hold its shape during frying and may result in a mushy texture. Extra-firm tofu is recommended for the best results.
What can I serve with fried tofu?
Fried tofu pairs well with rice, quinoa, or in a stir-fry. You can also serve it as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, or include it in dishes like Mediterranean Fried Rice.
How can I enhance the flavor of fried tofu?
Marinating the tofu before frying can infuse it with additional flavor. Soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger are excellent options for marinating.
Is fried tofu gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cornstarch and soy sauce, fried tofu can be a gluten-free option. Always check the labels of your ingredients.
If you enjoyed this fried tofu recipe, you might want to explore these delicious options:
Wrap-Up
Fried tofu is a delicious and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. With the right technique and a few simple ingredients, you can achieve that perfect crispiness that makes tofu so enjoyable. Whether you’re using it in a main dish, a salad, or simply as a snack, fried tofu will surely satisfy your taste buds. Embrace the culinary adventure of frying tofu, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and pairings. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Fried Tofu
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap tofu in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 15-30 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Add the tofu cubes to the seasoning mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the coated tofu cubes to the hot oil in a single layer. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove tofu from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Store leftover fried tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a hot skillet with oil to maintain crispiness.
- Press tofu well to avoid sogginess.
- Experiment with different seasonings for varied flavors.
- Pair with a dipping sauce for added taste.
