Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu
Ingredients
- 17.5 oz extra firm tofu
- Neutral oil
such as avocado, vegetable, canola, safflower, etc.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
or finely ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Chinese five spice powder
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
plus 1-2 tbsp more if needed
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
- 1/4 tsp Chinese five spice powder
- 2 tbsp neutral oil
- 1 medium red or white onion
diced
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
from 1 head garlic
- 3 long green chiles
I used siling haba
- 3 bird’s eye chilies or other red chiles
optional for spice
- 1 small green or red bell pepper
- 3 scallions
sliced
- Additional 1/4 tsp sea salt
if needed
Directions
- 1
Drain the excess water from the tofu for 10 to 15 minutes. I like to do this by wrapping them in paper towels and placing them on a flat surface before putting a plate or flat heavy surface on top. You can also opt to use a tofu press.
- 2
Prepare the salt and spices for the spice in a small bowl. Mix well then set aside for later.
- 3
Before you start coating your tofu, heat a large pan or wok over high heat with oil enough to submerge at least half of your tofu. I prefer to completely submerge them in oil to really evenly crisp the sides. If pan-frying, see the steps in the notes below.
- 4
In a large bowl, mix the cornstarch, salt, pepper, and 5 spice powder.
- 5
In the same pan/wok over high heat, add in some oil.
Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu
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About this Recipe
Craving that irresistible Chinese restaurant-style crunch and bold flavor without leaving your kitchen? This Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu recipe brings authentic takeout taste right to your table, perfect for sharing.The magic lies in coating the extra firm tofu cubes, ensuring they achieve a perfect crispness before being tossed with an aromatic blend. This two-step process guarantees every bite delivers that satisfying texture and a burst of savory, spicy goodness that stands out from typical stir-fries.Prepare for a delightful experience where tender-on-the-inside, wonderfully crispy-on-the-outside tofu meets a symphony of flavors. You'll savor the fragrant notes of garlic, onion, and Chinese five spice, balanced by the subtle heat of green chiles and optional bird’s eye chilies. The bell pepper and scallions add a fresh counterpoint to the rich seasoning, making each bite an exciting textural and taste adventure. It's a dish that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful, guaranteed to satisfy your craving for something special.While delicious as is, you can easily adapt this dish. Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer bird’s eye chilies, or omit them entirely for a milder version. If you prefer a less intense garlic flavor, reduce the amount slightly. A blend of white and black pepper can be used if white pepper isn't on hand, though white pepper offers a unique aroma. You can also vary the type of bell pepper for different colors and subtle flavor nuances.This flavorful Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu is ideal as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings or a satisfying main course alongside steamed rice. It’s a fantastic option when you're looking for something hearty, aromatic, and full of texture.