Crispy Fried Tofu with Garlicky Soy Sauce & Chili Sweet and Sour Sauce (酥炸豆腐)

cornstarch

🥗Healthier: arrowroot powder

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Arrowroot powder is a healthier thickening agent.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: tamari

💰Cheaper: liquid aminos

Tamari is gluten-free and lower in sodium.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a more budget-friendly option.

ginger

🥗Healthier: galangal

💰Cheaper: ground ginger

Ground ginger is a more accessible alternative.

Introduce crispy fried tofu and its popularity in boba tea shops.

Mention using firm tofu and not recommending soft tofu for frying.

Prepare ingredients for the sauces: grate garlic and chop cilantro.

Make garlicky soy sauce: combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated garlic, 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil, 1/4 teaspoon black vinegar, and 2 finely chopped cilantro in a bowl and mix.

Make chili sweet and sour sauce: in a clean bowl, add 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 to 1 1/2 teaspoon sriracha, a dash of grated garlic, and a dash of salt; mix well until sugar is dissolved.

Drain water from the tofu box and place it on paper towels on a flat plate or baking sheet.

Place more paper towels on top of the tofu and add weight (like food cans) to help squeeze out excess water; leave for 30 to 50 minutes.

Change paper towels if needed during the pressing process.

After about 30 minutes, cut the tofu into 16 equal triangular portions (or rectangular if preferred).

Heat vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches about 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Add tofu to the hot oil and fry on both sides for about 5 minutes or until the outside is slightly hardened and turns slightly yellow-brown.

Remove tofu and let it rest for about 5 minutes.

Fry the tofu a second time until golden brown and crispy on the outside, which takes about 2 additional minutes.

Serve warm with the prepared sauces.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens