Craving a deliciously crispy and flavorful protein that's both vegan-friendly and adaptable to any palate? Look no further than crispy salted tofu! This surprisingly simple recipe transforms humble tofu into a satisfyingly crunchy and savory dish, perfect as a standalone snack, a hearty addition to salads, or a star ingredient in your favorite stir-fries and bowls. Forget bland, rubbery tofu – this method delivers a golden-brown exterior with a perfectly tender interior, seasoned to perfection with just the right amount of salt and a hint of umami. Whether you're a seasoned vegan chef or a curious newcomer to plant-based eating, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
This recipe's magic lies in a clever pressing and cooking technique that draws out excess moisture and encourages browning, resulting in a truly remarkable textural experience. Ready to achieve perfectly crispy salted tofu every time? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to unlock this culinary delight.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Pestle
- Non-stick pan
- Basket
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Tofu: 5 pieces
- Lemongrass: 4 stalks
- Ren powder/Salt
- Crispy fried flour
- Spices
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu and Lemongrass
- Cut the tofu into 6 square pieces or 3 rectangular parts. Be gentle to avoid breaking.
- Pound the lemongrass (excluding the hard head) to make it easier to tear into strands. The smaller the shreds, the better.
Step 2. Fry the Tofu and Lemongrass
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan. Carefully fry the tofu pieces, ensuring even browning on both sides. Be gentle when flipping to prevent sticking.
- Fry until golden and crispy. Check with chopsticks – it should be firm to the touch.
- Remove the tofu and drain the oil. Increase the heat of the pan.
- Lightly coat the tofu with fried flour.
- Fry the lemongrass until golden and crispy. Continuous flipping ensures even cooking.
- Remove the lemongrass and drain the oil.
Step 3. Season and Coat the Tofu
- Mix the fried tofu with a spoonful and a half of salted roasted flour.
- Gently mix in the crispy lemongrass and half a spoonful of salted flour.
Step 4. Plate and Serve
- Arrange the lemongrass on a dish, top with the tofu, and serve.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Use a non-stick pan and enough oil to ensure even frying and prevent sticking.
- Be gentle when handling the tofu, especially when it's still soft.
- Coating the tofu with fried flour helps to achieve a crispier texture.
- For vegetarians, use vegetarian salt-roasted powder.
Nutrition
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use firm or extra-firm tofu instead of silken tofu?
Yes! Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for achieving a crispy exterior. Silken tofu is too soft.
2. How do I store leftover crispy tofu?
Store leftover crispy tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer for best results.
With its crispy texture, savory flavor, and surprising versatility, crispy salted tofu is a recipe you'll return to again and again. From quick weeknight meals to impressive dinner party dishes, this simple recipe elevates tofu to a whole new level. So embrace the crunch, experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy the deliciousness!