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Salt And Pepper Tofu Extra Crispy Recipe

Salt And Pepper Tofu Extra Crispy Recipe - Friendsgiving Food Ideas

I still remember the first time I tried salt and pepper tofu extra crispy at a local Asian restaurant. The crunch of the tofu, juxtaposed with the subtle heat of peppercorns, sent me into a food-induced bliss. I instantly thought, “I need to make this at home!” Gradually, I came up with my version, using real ingredients and a few tricks we all can master. This dish not only brings joy but is surprisingly easy to prepare!
With time, I have perfected this recipe and am excited to share it with you. You can whip it up for a weeknight dinner or serve it to impress friends at a dinner party.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 289
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt
  • 2 cups filtered water
  • 1 1/2 cups tapioca starch
  • 14 oz medium or firm tofu
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed chili flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic granules
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon mushroom powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped Thai basil or fresh cilantro
  • 3 red chilies, thinly sliced
  • 2 stalks green onion
  • 6 garlic cloves

Method
 

  1. Let’s make our salt and pepper tofu extra crispy! Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a delicious meal.
Step 1: Press the Tofu
  1. Start by pressing the tofu. Wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top. This will squeeze out excess moisture and make it easier to crisp up when cooked. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning
  1. While the tofu is pressing, mix your dry seasoning blend in a bowl. Combine the crushed chili flakes, garlic granules, Sichuan pepper, sugar, white pepper, mushroom powder, and fine salt. Set this aside; we’ll use it soon.
Step 3: Slice and Cube
  1. Once the tofu is pressed, slice it into bite-sized cubes. The smaller the cubes, the more surface area there is to crisp up.
Step 4: Make the Slurry
  1. In another bowl, mix the tapioca starch with sesame oil. Add a little water to the mix until you achieve a smooth paste. This batter will help create that coveted crispy texture.
Step 5: Coat the Tofu
  1. Gently toss the tofu cubes in the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. You want the starch to cling to the tofu for maximum crunch.
Step 6: Fry the Tofu
  1. Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of tofu in; it should sizzle), carefully add the coated tofu cubes. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Season the Tofu
  1. Once the tofu is crispy, immediately sprinkle the dry seasoning blend over the tofu while it's still hot. This helps the flavor stick.
Step 8: Garnish
  1. Finally, add the chopped green onions, sliced chilies, and your choice of herbs like cilantro or Thai basil. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.

Notes

Want to achieve perfectly crispy tofu? Here are some tips:
  • Use Firm Tofu: It holds its shape better and crisps nicely.
  • Press the Tofu Thoroughly: Squeeze out excess moisture; the more moisture removed, the crisper the tofu.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches for even cooking.
  • Watch the Oil Temperature: Too hot may burn, too cool won’t crisp. Aim for medium-high heat.
  • Add Fresh Herbs Last: This prevents them from wilting and losing their vibrancy.