Craving a vibrant, flavorful vegetarian dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this crispy lemongrass chili fried tofu recipe! This recipe delivers a delightful explosion of textures and tastes, starting with perfectly pan-fried tofu boasting a satisfyingly crunchy exterior, and yielding to a tender, juicy interior. The fragrant lemongrass and spicy chili blend beautifully, creating a unique and addictive flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget bland tofu; this recipe elevates it to a culinary masterpiece.
This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun weekend project. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create some seriously delicious lemongrass chili fried tofu together!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Sieve
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Tofu: 2-3 pieces
- Lemongrass
- Chili
- Salt: 1-2 spoons
- Cooking Oil
- Soy Sauce: 1 ladle (for dipping sauce)
- Vinegar: 1/3 ladle (optional, for dipping sauce)
- Sugar: 1/2 ladle (for dipping sauce)
- Water: 1 ladle (for dipping sauce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu
- Wash the tofu and soak it in 1 liter of water with 1-2 spoons of salt for 15-20 minutes. This helps the tofu absorb the flavor evenly and prevents dryness.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces to help it soak faster.
- Pat the tofu dry with paper towels.
Step 2. Fry the Lemongrass and Tofu
- Mince the lemongrass and fry it in a pan until golden brown and crispy. This infuses the oil with lemongrass flavor.
- Fry the tofu in the lemongrass-infused oil over low heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Turning frequently to prevent burning.
- Add minced chili to the pan during the last few minutes of frying the tofu to add spiciness.
Step 3. Crisp and Drain
- Remove the fried tofu and chili, placing them on a sieve to drain excess oil. Increase the heat for the last minute to crisp up the tofu.
Step 4. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Mix soy sauce, vinegar (optional), sugar, water, and minced chili.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Soaking the tofu in salted water prevents it from being dry and ensures even flavor.
- Use low heat when frying to prevent the tofu from burning before it becomes crispy.
- Add the chili towards the end of frying to avoid burning.
- Increase the heat at the very end to crisp the tofu and remove excess oil
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-600
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use firm or extra-firm tofu instead of silken tofu?
Yes! Firm or extra-firm tofu will work best for achieving that crispy exterior. Silken tofu is too soft for this recipe.
2. What can I substitute for lemongrass if I don't have any?
You can try using lime zest and juice for a similar citrusy flavor, or a combination of ginger and garlic for a warmer, spicier alternative.
3. How do I store leftover fried tofu?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or air fryer to restore crispiness.
This crispy lemongrass chili fried tofu recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian meal. Its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect dish for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try and impress yourself and your loved ones with this easy-to-make culinary delight!