The Secret to Crispy Fried Tofu: A Dish You’ll Never Forget

24 January, 2025

Soaking Tofu in Brine for a Crispy Treat

Soak tofu in salted water.

A clever trick to achieving crispy and flavorful fried tofu is to dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a bowl of hot water, then soak the tofu for 20–30 minutes. The salted water reduces moisture on the tofu’s surface, resulting in a crisp, golden finish when fried. For best results, use a high-heat frying technique to prevent the tofu from turning soft and mushy, maintaining its creamy texture within.

Blanch tofu in boiling water.

Another way to ensure your tofu stays intact and beautifully shaped during frying is to cut it into blocks, place them on a slotted spoon, and blanch in a pot of boiling water for about 20 seconds. Adding a pinch of salt to the water can enhance this process. This method helps the tofu retain its shape and firmness.

Ensure your pan is clean.

A clean pan is essential to prevent sticking and breaking the delicate tofu. Use a non-stick pan that is free from scratches. To ensure it’s thoroughly clean, boil some water in the pan and then discard it, allowing the pan to dry.

Use ample hot oil.

When frying tofu, always use enough hot oil to completely submerge the tofu. This ensures a crispy golden exterior and a soft interior. Using too little oil will require longer frying times, resulting in dry tofu that absorbs more oil, making it greasy and heavy.

Don’t flip the tofu too soon.

Tofu is notoriously fragile, especially high-quality tofu. When frying, be patient and allow one side to turn golden before flipping. Premature flipping will result in broken tofu.

By following these simple tips, you can transform your tofu into a crispy, mouthwatering delight while maintaining its creamy interior.