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Crispy Tofu Bites
Indulge in these irresistibly crispy tofu bites, a delightful vegan snack that will leave your taste buds dancing. With a perfect balance of crunch on the outside and a soft, flavorful center, these bites are seasoned to perfection with aromatic spices that elevate their natural goodness. Tofu, a staple in Asian cuisines for centuries, not only serves as a fantastic source of protein but also as a versatile canvas for flavor, absorbing every seasoning and sauce. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these crispy bites paired with your favorite dipping sauce are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Extra firm tofu
- 1 block (14 ounces)
- Cornstarch
- 1/2 cup
- Paprika
- 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup (for frying)
- Soy sauce
- 1/4 cup (for dipping sauce)
- Rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (for dipping sauce)
- Sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon (for dipping sauce)
- Chili paste
- 1 teaspoon (optional, for dipping sauce)
Instructions
- Begin by draining the extra firm tofu. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top to press out excess moisture for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
- In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an even coating.
- Carefully coat each tofu cube in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the coated tofu cubes to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until crispy and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, remove the tofu bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste (if using) to create a zesty dipping sauce.
- Serve the crispy tofu bites hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips
- For an extra crunch, double coat the tofu by dipping it back into water after the first cornstarch coating and then re-coating with cornstarch.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cayenne pepper for heat or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- These tofu bites can also be baked: preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Appetizer Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Calories: 180 Fat: 10g Carbs: 14g Protein: 10g Sodium: 300mg Sugar: 1g
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