Craving a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that packs a punch? Look no further than this Spicy Sour Tofu recipe! This recipe transforms humble tofu into a crispy, satisfying centerpiece, coated in a tantalizingly spicy and sour satay sauce. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, this dish is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Forget bland tofu – this recipe elevates it to a culinary masterpiece, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a more impressive dinner party dish.
Imagine perfectly crisp tofu cubes, glistening with a vibrant, richly colored sauce, the aroma alone promising a delightful culinary adventure. This isn't your average tofu; the unique blend of spices in the satay sauce creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own Spicy Sour Tofu masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Tofu: 5 pieces
- Garlic: 1 bulb, peeled
- Chili pepper: 3-5 (adjust to spice preference)
- Tamarind: 2
- Vietnamese Coriander: 40 grams
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Cooking oil
- Chili sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1-1.5 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1.5 tablespoons
- Shrimp paste (optional): 1/2 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon: 1-2
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu and Sauce Ingredients
- Cut the tofu into 6 square pieces, being gentle to avoid sharp edges.
- Prepare the tamarind by cutting it lengthwise and removing the seeds.
- Finely chop the chili peppers, garlic, and Vietnamese coriander.
Step 2. Cook the Sauce and Crisp the Tofu
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add garlic and chili peppers, fry until fragrant and golden.
- Turn off the heat. Add soy sauce, chili sauce, salt, sugar, and shrimp paste (if using). Stir well.
- Turn on low heat and stir the sauce for about 40 seconds until it boils.
- Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool.
- Heat cooking oil in a separate pan. Fry the tofu pieces until golden and crispy on both sides, turning gently to avoid breaking.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- Add the fried tofu to the sauce. Add pepper and 30 grams of Vietnamese coriander.
- Squeeze in lemon juice to taste, adjusting the sourness to your preference.
Step 4. Serve
- Mix everything well. Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your preferred spice level.
- Use enough cooking oil to fry the tofu, about half the amount of tofu.
- Fry the tofu until golden brown and crispy but not overcooked, to avoid it softening.
- If using a smaller pan, fry the tofu in batches to prevent sticking.
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 this recipe as it holds its shape better during frying and absorbs the sauce well. Press it thoroughly to remove excess water before cooking.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier or less spicy?
To make it spicier, add more chili garlic sauce or a chopped chili pepper. For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce or omit it altogether. Taste and adjust to your preference.
This Spicy Sour Tofu recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavourful and satisfying vegetarian meal. The crispy tofu, combined with the vibrant, tangy satay sauce, creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dish!