Crispy fried tofu is a beloved dish that many people enjoy. Moreover, it is a budget-friendly dish that is both inexpensive and satisfying. However, not everyone knows how to fry tofu without it breaking apart. With the simple recipe below, you will have a foolproof, delicious, crispy tofu that doesn’t stick to the pan.
Soak the tofu in saltwater
The key to frying tofu to a golden color without it falling apart is to soak it in saltwater. First, add a teaspoon of salt to a bowl of hot water, stir until dissolved, then soak the tofu for about 30 minutes. The saltwater will reduce the moisture on the surface of the tofu, resulting in a crispier and more vibrant golden color. The hot water temperature helps the tofu stay firm and retain moisture inside for a rich and tender texture. This way, the fried tofu will have a crispy outer layer and a soft interior.
Blanch the tofu in boiling water
One of the secret techniques that many cooks use is blanching the tofu. Cut the tofu into small cubes and place it on a sieve, then blanch it in boiling water for about 20 seconds. This method helps the tofu maintain its beautiful shape and firm texture. You can add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for better results.
Ensure the pan is clean
The pan must be clean to prevent the tofu from sticking and breaking apart. This is the most important step in ensuring crispy and delicious fried tofu. It is best to use a non-stick pan that is not scratched. You can pour a little water into the pan, bring it to a boil, thoroughly clean it, then pour out the water and let it dry.
Rub ginger on the pan
If your pan has lost its non-stick coating, making the frying process difficult, there is a trick. Before frying the tofu, after the pan is dry, rub some fresh ginger slices evenly on the bottom and sides of the pan. This method helps prevent the tofu from sticking to the pan.
Ensure the oil is hot and sufficient
In the secrets of making crispy and delicious fried tofu, you must remember that the oil should be hot and there should be enough oil to fully submerge the tofu. This way, the tofu will have a crispy golden outer layer and a soft interior. If you use too little oil, you will need to fry the tofu for a longer time, resulting in a dry texture and excessive oil absorption.
Avoid flipping the tofu too soon
One of the secrets to achieving a batch of golden crispy fried tofu is to avoid flipping the tofu too soon, as it can easily break apart. Since tofu is naturally soft and fragile, especially the good quality tofu, when you put it in the pan, do not flip it until one side turns golden.
Craving something tasty? Spice up your dinner with fried tofu! Here we provide 5 key tips to ensure your tofu comes out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked- so you never have to worry about it crumbling or sticking to the pan.
Tired of the same boring meals? Spice up your diet with our expansive list of mouth-watering recipes! With options ranging from reishi mushroom dishes to vegetarian meals to hearty comfort-food classics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Are you aware of how to inspect food for possible safety risks? With the presence of food products from unclear origins and chemicals used as preservatives, it is important to be vigilant in selecting food items for our families. Join us in the Food Tips section to take a closer look at how to select safe and healthy food for our families!
Experience a unique twist on two classic culinary items with the fusion of raw eggs and soy milk. Be daring and combine the two ingredients to create a flavorful dish.
Frequently asked questions
To make perfect fried tofu, start by cutting the tofu into your desired shape and size. Prepare a magical marinade by mixing water, cornstarch, and a pinch of baking soda. Soak the tofu in this mixture for at least 30 minutes. This process helps to create a crispy exterior. After soaking, gently pat the tofu dry with a paper towel. Heat oil in a pan or wok to around 350°F (180°C). Carefully place the tofu pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove the tofu from the oil and drain on a paper towel. Enjoy your crispy, golden fried tofu!
There could be a few reasons why your fried tofu isn’t crispy. First, ensure that you are using firm or extra-firm tofu as softer varieties tend to fall apart and won’t crisp up nicely. Second, the oil temperature is crucial; if it’s not hot enough, the tofu will absorb too much oil and become soggy. A temperature of 350°F (180°C) is ideal. Also, make sure you are not overcrowding the pan, as this can reduce the oil temperature and affect the crispness.
Pressing the tofu before frying is not necessary for this particular recipe. The cornstarch and baking soda marinade helps to create a crispy exterior without the need for pressing. However, if you prefer a drier tofu or want to reduce the cooking time, you can gently press the tofu to remove some of the moisture before cutting and marinating it.
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative to frying. To bake the tofu, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tofu into your desired shape and size, and marinate it as mentioned above. Place the tofu on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tofu should be golden and crispy. Note that baking may not yield the same level of crispness as frying.
Fried tofu is versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. It goes well with stir-fries, noodles, rice, or vegetables. You can also serve it as an appetizer or snack with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a tangy peanut sauce. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and cuisines!
Step up your fashion game and exude an air of sophistication and style by embracing the art of mixing and matching shirts à la Salim. Elevate your wardrobe and discover a whole new world of endless outfit possibilities.
Step up your fashion game and exude an air of sophistication and style by embracing the art of mixing and matching shirts à la Salim. Elevate your wardrobe and discover a whole new world of endless outfit possibilities.