Craving a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for Fried Tofu with Betel Leaves, a delightful culinary journey blending the savory crispness of fried tofu with the unique, slightly peppery aroma of betel leaves. This dish offers a delicious twist on traditional tofu preparations, showcasing the versatility of this plant-based protein in a way that will tantalize your taste buds. The fragrant betel leaves add a distinctive complexity, elevating the simple tofu into a truly memorable meal.
This recipe perfectly balances textures and flavors, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. From the satisfying crunch of the fried tofu to the subtle herbal notes of the betel leaves, every bite is a delightful experience. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating this exceptional vegetarian rice dish.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Tofu: 200g
- White Tofu: 10 pieces
- Betel Leaves
- Dried Vermicelli/Pieces: 2g
- Crispy Fried Flour: 30g
- Turmeric Powder
- Sugar
- Vegetarian Seasoning
- Ground Pepper
- Cooking Oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Tofu Mixture
- Boil water and soak dried vermicelli/pieces for 1 minute to soften. Cut tofu into small pieces and grind finely.
- Finely chop betel leaves.
- Combine ground tofu, chopped betel leaves, ground pepper (½ teaspoon), vegetarian seasoning (1 teaspoon), sugar (1 teaspoon), and turmeric powder (1 teaspoon). Mix well.
Step 2. Create the Tofu Batter
- Add 30g of crispy fried flour. Mix well and add water to achieve a thick consistency.
Step 3. Fry the Tofu
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Fry small portions of the mixture until golden brown on both sides.
Step 4. Drain Excess Oil
- Place fried tofu on oil-absorbing paper to remove excess oil.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Use betel leaves that are not too old.
- If you like, add a little fried onion.
- Adjust the heat to prevent the tofu from absorbing too much oil.
- Serve with rice, bread, or as a snack. You can also dip it in chili sauce or vegetarian fish sauce/soy sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the betel leaves if I don't have access to them?
Yes! Basil, mint, or even cilantro can offer a similar fresh, herbaceous flavor. The taste will be different, but still delicious.
2. What kind of tofu is best for this recipe?
Firm or extra-firm tofu works best. It holds its shape well during frying and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a chopped chili pepper (like serrano or Thai chili) to the pan while sautéing the vegetables, or use a chili garlic sauce as a dipping option.
This Vegetarian Fried Tofu with Betel Leaves recipe is a testament to the exciting possibilities of plant-based cooking. Its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures make it a perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping addition to your next gathering. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!