Description
Spicy crispy tofu delivers a flavor explosion that dances across palates with perfectly crunchy edges and bold heat. Delightful Asian-inspired seasonings and a golden-brown exterior make this dish irresistible for you to savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 ounces / 397 grams) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
Seasoning and Coating Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or any neutral oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
Optional Toppings:
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Extract moisture from tofu block by pressing between paper towels or using a tofu press for approximately 15-20 minutes to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Slice tofu into uniform, bite-sized cubes ensuring consistent cooking and texture.
- Create a flavorful coating by mixing soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl, thoroughly tossing tofu cubes until evenly distributed.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, adding a thin layer of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place seasoned tofu cubes into hot skillet, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown crispy exterior, rotating periodically for even browning.
- Remove crispy tofu from pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Using the same skillet, combine sauce ingredients except cornstarch mixture, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk cornstarch slurry into simmering sauce, stirring continuously until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Gently reintroduce crispy tofu into sauce, delicately coating each piece without breaking the cubes.
- Transfer sauced tofu to serving dish, garnishing with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional red pepper flakes for additional heat.
- Serve immediately alongside steamed rice, noodles, or fresh lettuce wraps.
Notes
- Drain tofu thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent soggy texture.
- Opt for extra-firm tofu as it holds its shape better and provides a more satisfying crispy exterior when cooking.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan with high heat to create a golden, crunchy coating without sticking.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting red pepper flakes or adding sriracha for those who love extra heat, or reducing for a milder version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1000 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg