The versatility of tofu is undeniable. This plant-based protein can be used in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries to curries, and even as a meat substitute in many cuisines around the world. But have you ever tried frying it? Oh boy, that’s where things get really exciting! Crispy fried tofu can elevate any meal to new heights, adding texture, flavor, and a satisfying crunch that will leave you wanting more. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious crispy fried tofu recipes for every occasion – from spicy Korean-inspired dishes to sweet and sour treats. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Spicy Korean Fried Tofu
This recipe combines crispy fried tofu with a spicy kick of Korean chili flakes and a sweet and sour glaze, making it a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and Korean chili flakes.
2. Dredge tofu pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry tofu in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and Gochujang.
5. Toss fried tofu in the glaze until coated.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Fried Tofu
A simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter with the pungency of garlic, elevating plain tofu to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. If using soy sauce, drizzle it over the tofu during the last minute of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Honey Sriracha Fried Tofu
Add a tangy twist to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes with this easy-to-make honey sriracha fried tofu recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for any meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured tofu in honey, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Drizzle with sriracha sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Crispy Sesame Fried Tofu
A flavorful and textured twist on traditional fried tofu, this recipe adds a satisfying crunch from toasted sesame seeds and a savory flavor boost from soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat sesame oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and soy sauce over the tofu and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Fried Tofu
Elevate your vegan game with this crispy and tangy treat! This sweet and sour fried tofu recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional Chinese cuisine, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade, see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Dip each tofu piece into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated tofu pieces until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately with sweet and sour sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes for all pieces to fry.
Thai Basil Fried Tofu
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make recipe for crispy fried tofu smothered in a savory and aromatic Thai basil sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dredge tofu pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove tofu from oil and set aside. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and Thai basil leaves. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt to the pan. Stir to combine.
6. Add fried tofu back into the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Fried Tofu
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fried tofu, this Teriyaki Glazed Fried Tofu recipe is a flavorful and crispy treat. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the breadcrumb mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tofu cubes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
6. Brush glaze over fried tofu during the last minute of cooking.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Fried Tofu
Brighten up your meal with this zesty and flavorful Lemon Pepper Fried Tofu recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a snack. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it’s a delightful twist on traditional fried tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Dip tofu cubes into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dredge tofu in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove fried tofu from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with lemon juice drizzled on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu Fried Style
Mapo Tofu Fried Style: A Spicy Sichuan Delight
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This recipe is a creative twist on the classic Mapo Tofu, adding crispy fried elements to the traditional Sichuan dish. The combination of silky tofu, spicy ground pork, and crunchy peanuts creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Add the ground pork, garlic, and ginger paste to the bowl; mix well.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pork mixture and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
5. Remove the pork from the wok and set aside.
6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok.
7. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
8. Stir in the cooked pork, peanuts, salt, and pepper.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
General Tso’s Fried Tofu
Add a twist to traditional General Tso’s chicken with crispy fried tofu and a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– General Tso’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
2. Dip each tofu cube into the cornstarch, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu cubes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove tofu from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve with General Tso’s sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Fried Tofu Bites
Transform plain tofu into a flavorful and addictive snack with this easy recipe. A perfect combination of spicy and savory, these bites are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tofu cube into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tofu bites until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with Buffalo sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Fried Tofu
Elevate your stir-fry game with this crispy and flavorful Five-Spice Fried Tofu recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a snack to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons of five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, five-spice powder, and salt.
2. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. When the oil is hot, add the coated tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the fried tofu from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite stir-fry or salad.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Panko-Crusted Fried Tofu
This recipe yields a satisfyingly crispy exterior and creamy interior. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, it’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable oil
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped green onions for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tofu cubes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Black Pepper Fried Tofu
A simple yet flavorful recipe that adds a delightful crunch and spicy kick to your favorite dishes. This black pepper fried tofu is perfect for adding texture and flavor to salads, noodle bowls, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Toss tofu cubes in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add tofu cubes to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your crunchy and flavorful black pepper fried tofu!
Ginger Soy Fried Tofu
A flavorful and crispy tofu dish that’s perfect as a snack or side dish. This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic with a crunchy exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Tofu cubes: Dip each cube into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tofu cubes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
7. Tofu: Toss the fried tofu cubes with the ginger-soy mixture until well coated.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Glazed Fried Tofu
Elevate your plant-based game with this mouthwatering BBQ glazed fried tofu recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– BBQ Glaze:
+ 1/4 cup ketchup
+ 1/4 cup brown sugar
+ 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip tofu cubes into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated tofu in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer fried tofu to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. While the tofu is baking, prepare the BBQ glaze by whisking together all ingredients.
7. Brush the warm glaze over the baked tofu cubes.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total.
Salt and Pepper Fried Tofu
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and savory recipe that combines the perfect balance of salt, pepper, and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Optional: chopped scallions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured tofu in cornstarch, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry tofu in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot and garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Curry Fried Tofu
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the creaminess of coconut with the spiciness of curry, this Coconut Curry Fried Tofu recipe is a perfect blend of East meets West.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip tofu cubes into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat coconut milk in a large skillet over medium heat. Add curry powder and whisk until smooth.
4. Add vegetable oil to the skillet and swirl to combine. Fry tofu in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these 18 crispy fried tofu recipes! From spicy Korean-inspired flavors to sweet and sour, and from classic garlic butter to teriyaki glazed, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory bite or a sweet treat, this collection has got you covered. Try making Spicy Korean Fried Tofu for a bold kick, Garlic Butter Fried Tofu for a comforting favorite, or Honey Sriracha Fried Tofu for a sweet and spicy combination. The possibilities are endless with these crispy fried tofu recipes!
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