Crispy tofu is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or added to various recipes. Here’s a simple recipe for making crispy tofu:
Ingredients:
- 1 block (about 14-16 ounces) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu:
– Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any excess liquid. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place it on a plate and put a heavy object on top (such as a cast-iron skillet or a can). Press for at least 15-30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. Cut Tofu:
– Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
3. Marinate Tofu:
– In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vegetable oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
4. Preheat Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Coat Tofu with Cornstarch:
– Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu cubes and toss until the tofu is evenly coated.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching to ensure crispiness.
7. Bake:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
– Remove the crispy tofu from the oven. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
9. Enjoy:
– Serve the crispy tofu on its own as a snack, or use it as a topping for salads, stir-fries, or noodle dishes.
This crispy tofu recipe provides a simple and tasty way to enjoy tofu. Adjust the seasonings to your liking, and feel free to experiment with different marinades or sauces for added flavor.
