Crispy Tofu

🥢 Chinese Crispy Tofu 

Crispy Tofu is a beloved Chinese dish known for its golden, crunchy exterior and soft, tender interior. This dish is often served as an appetizer or side dish and pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces or stir-fried vegetables.

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🛒 Ingredients

• Firm tofu (or medium-firm tofu): 1 block (about 400 g)

• Cornstarch (or potato starch): ½ cup

• All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp

• Baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness): ½ tsp

• Salt: ½ tsp

• White pepper: ¼ tsp

• Garlic powder (optional): ½ tsp

• Cooking oil: enough for deep frying or shallow frying

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

• Light soy sauce: 2 tbsp

• Black vinegar: 1 tbsp

• Sesame oil: ½ tsp

• Chili flakes or fresh chili: to taste

• Chopped scallions: 1 tbsp

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Tofu

1. Drain the tofu and wrap it in paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Place a weight (like a plate) on top and press for 15–20 minutes to remove excess water.

2. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles.

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Step 2. Make the Coating

1. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, white pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Lightly coat each tofu piece with the mixture, ensuring all sides are covered. Shake off excess powder.

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Step 3. Fry the Tofu

1. Heat oil in a wok or deep pan to 170–180°C (340–360°F).

2. Carefully add the tofu pieces in small batches to avoid overcrowding.

3. Fry until the tofu turns golden and crispy (about 3–4 minutes per batch).

4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

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Step 4. Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, chili flakes, and chopped scallions.

2. Mix well and set aside.

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Step 5. Serve

Arrange the crispy tofu on a plate. Serve hot with dipping sauce or pair it with stir-fried dishes for a crunchy contrast.

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🌟 Tips

• Pressing the tofu is key to achieving a crispy texture, as it removes excess water.

• For an even crunchier bite, you can dip the tofu cubes in a light batter before coating with cornstarch.

• Adjust seasonings in the coating mixture to your taste (e.g., add five-spice powder or chili powder).

• Best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy.