Craving a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian meal that's both quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant tastes? Look no further than this incredibly delicious Crispy Satay Tofu recipe! This recipe transforms humble tofu into a crispy, golden-brown delight, perfectly complemented by a rich and aromatic peanut satay sauce. Forget bland tofu; this recipe elevates it to a culinary masterpiece, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a vibrant addition to your next barbecue. The satisfying crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy, subtly spicy sauce, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the tofu for maximum crispiness to creating the authentic satay sauce that will have you licking your fingers. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Basket
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Tofu (white): 5 pieces (or 2 large + 1 small)
- Satay Sauce
- Sugar
- Seasoning Powder
- Salt
- Lemon: 1/2 - 1/3 (depending on size)
- Water: 1-1.5 liters
- Oil
- Vietnamese Coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu
- Wash the tofu thoroughly.
- Marinate tofu in salt water (1-1.5 liters of water with 2 spoons of salt) for even seasoning and moisture. Then drain and pat dry.
- Remove tofu from pan and place in a basket to drain excess oil.



Step 2. Fry the Tofu to Perfection
- Heat oil in a pan. Fry the tofu until golden brown on both sides, ensuring medium heat to avoid dryness. When golden, increase heat for 10-15 seconds to crisp the outside.

Step 3. Make and Apply the Satay Sauce
- combine satay sauce, sugar, a little water, and seasoning powder (adjust to taste). Add half a lemon’s juice.
- Add the fried tofu to the satay sauce and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tofu absorbs the sauce.


Step 4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with Vietnamese coriander.
- Serve and enjoy!


Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- Using white tofu and frying it yourself results in a more delicious and fragrant dish. Avoid pre-fried tofu.
- Marinating tofu in salt water keeps the inside soft and juicy, preventing dryness during frying.
- Don't turn the tofu too often while frying; this helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Use fresh oil for frying for better taste and less oily result.
Nutrition
- N/A
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 can I make the satay sauce spicier?
Add more chili garlic sauce or a finely chopped chili pepper to the sauce to increase the heat level to your preference.
3. What can I serve this crispy satay tofu with?
It's delicious served with rice, noodles, quinoa, or as part of a rice bowl with your favorite veggies.
This Crispy Satay Tofu recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy the delightful crunch and rich peanut sauce – it's a vegetarian dish that will impress even the most dedicated meat-eaters. So go ahead, give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!