This vegan fried tofu recipe is a delightful and crispy dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. The tofu is marinated in soy sauce and coated with cornstarch to achieve a perfect golden brown crust when fried. It's a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy tofu.
If you don't usually cook with tofu, you might need to visit the supermarket to pick up a block of firm tofu. Make sure to drain and press it to remove excess moisture. Soy sauce and cornstarch are common pantry items, but if you don't have them, they are easily found in the Asian food section of most supermarkets.
Ingredients For Vegan Fried Tofu Recipe
Tofu: A block of firm tofu is ideal for frying as it holds its shape well and absorbs flavors.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the tofu.
Cornstarch: Helps create a crispy coating on the tofu when fried.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying the tofu to achieve a golden brown crust.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing tofu, ensure it is thoroughly pressed to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. You can use a tofu press or place the tofu block between paper towels and weigh it down with a heavy object for at least 30 minutes.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
firm, drained and pressed tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firm texture and absorbs flavors well, making it a great alternative to tofu in fried dishes.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor, making it suitable for vegan recipes.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and can be used in place of cornstarch for a similar crispy coating.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a good alternative for frying due to its high smoke point and adds a subtle flavor to the dish.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the tofu soggy.
- Transfer the cooled tofu to an airtight container. This helps maintain its crispiness and prevents it from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The tofu will remain flavorful and ready to be reheated or enjoyed cold.
- For freezing, place the cooled tofu pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure the pieces are not touching each other to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the tofu on the baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, or until the pieces are solid. This step is crucial for maintaining the tofu's texture.
- Once frozen, transfer the tofu pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Store the tofu in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen in a frying pan or oven.
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Alternatively, reheat the tofu in a frying pan with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Cook until warmed and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is heated through and slightly crispy.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan. Add the tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and crispy.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is hot and crispy.
Microwave Method: Place the tofu on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through, until the tofu is heated through. Note: This method may not retain the tofu's crispiness.
Steaming Method: Place the tofu in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method will keep the tofu moist but won't retain its crispy texture.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Knife: Essential for cutting the tofu into uniform pieces.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the tofu, soy sauce, and cornstarch thoroughly.
Frying pan: Necessary for frying the tofu until it reaches a golden brown color.
Spatula: Helps to turn the tofu cubes in the pan to ensure even cooking on all sides.
Paper towels: Used to drain the excess oil from the fried tofu, making it less greasy.
Plate: To place the tofu on after frying and draining.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring the soy sauce, cornstarch, and vegetable oil.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Press tofu ahead: Press the tofu in advance to save time when cooking.
Pre-mix ingredients: Combine soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl before adding the tofu.
Use a non-stick pan: A non-stick pan helps tofu cook evenly and reduces sticking, saving cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of tofu at once and store them for later use.
Preheat the oil: Ensure the vegetable oil is hot before adding the tofu to reduce cooking time.
Vegan Fried Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block Tofu firm, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoon Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoon Vegetable oil
Instructions
- Cut tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine tofu, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add tofu to the pan and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove tofu from pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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