Discover how to make perfectly crispy and golden Fried Tofu (炸豆腐) with this easy-to-follow recipe. These flavorful tofu cubes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Ideal for serving with your favorite dipping sauces, this dish is a fantastic vegetarian option that’s both satisfying and versatile. Follow our simple steps for a crunchy and tasty tofu experience that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients:

- 1 block firm tofu

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup cornstarch

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

Prepare the Tofu:

  - Drain the tofu and press it gently to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

  - In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.

Coat the Tofu:

  - Place the tofu cubes in the bowl with the dry mixture. Toss gently to coat the tofu evenly with the flour mixture.

Heat the Oil:

  - Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. 

Fry the Tofu:

  - Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu cubes to the pan in a single layer. Fry the tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve:

  - Remove the tofu from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Enjoy your crispy and golden Fried Tofu (炸豆腐) as a delicious snack or as a complement to your main dishes!

Nutritional values

Firm Tofu (1 block, ~400g)

- Calories: ~144

- Protein: ~15g

- Fat: ~9g

- Carbohydrates: ~3g

- Calcium: ~350mg

Benefits:

- Excellent source of plant-based protein.

- Rich in calcium, which supports bone health.

- Contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein.

All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup)

- Calories: ~364

- Protein: ~10g

- Fat: ~1g

- Carbohydrates: ~76g

Benefits:

- Provides a light coating that contributes to the crispy texture.

- Adds carbohydrates for energy but is low in fiber.

Cornstarch (1/4 cup)

- Calories: ~381

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: ~91g

Benefits:

- Helps create an extra crispy coating for the tofu.

- Pure starch, which helps with the binding of ingredients, but doesn't add much nutritional value.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: ~38,000mg

Benefits:

- Enhances flavor, but should be used sparingly to control sodium intake.

Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: ~251

- Protein: ~10g

- Fat: ~3g

- Carbohydrates: ~64g

Benefits:

- Adds a slight spiciness and depth of flavor.

- Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: ~331

- Protein: ~16g

- Fat: ~0.7g

- Carbohydrates: ~73g

Benefits:

- Adds a savory, garlicky flavor.

- Provides some of the same health benefits as fresh garlic, including heart health support and immune-boosting properties.

Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: ~282

- Protein: ~14g

- Fat: ~13g

- Carbohydrates: ~54g

Benefits:

- Adds color and a subtle sweetness or spiciness depending on the variety.

- Rich in vitamins A and E, which support eye and skin health.

Vegetable Oil (for frying)

- Calories: ~884

- Fat: ~100g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

Benefits:

- Necessary for frying and creating a crispy texture.

- Use sparingly to avoid excess fat intake, and opt for healthier oils like sunflower or canola when possible.

This Crispy Fried Tofu is a simple and satisfying dish, perfect for adding to salads, stir-fries, or eating as a snack. Tofu is the star ingredient, offering high-quality plant-based protein, while the flour and cornstarch mixture helps create a perfectly crispy coating when fried. The seasoning of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper ensures that the tofu is packed with flavor.