Crispy Golden Deep Fried Tofu Bites
Experience the delightful crunch of Crispy Golden Deep Fried Tofu Bites, a delicious recipe inspired by family traditions. This dish is not only a fantastic way to incorporate more soy into your diet, but it also offers a perfect balance of savory flavors thanks to the unique blend of Chinese five spice powder and aromatic garlic. Ideal as an appetizer or a main dish, these tofu bites are irresistible when served fresh and hot, garnished with crisp green onions. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
sea salt
1 tablespoon (none)
Chinese five spice powder
1 tablespoon (none)
sugar
2 tablespoons (none)
white pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
garlic
1 clove (very finely chopped)
tofu
1 lb (4 pieces) (cut in half)
peanut oil
2 1/2 cups (for deep frying)
green onions
4 (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, Chinese five spice powder, sugar, white pepper, and finely chopped garlic until well mixed.
2
Carefully add each piece of tofu one at a time, gently turning them to ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
3
Once all the tofu is coated, allow it to marinate for 1 hour, letting the flavors soak in.
4
In a wok or deep frying pan, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat until the oil is smoking.
5
Carefully add the marinated tofu pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Deep fry for about 5 minutes, or until the tofu is puffy and golden-brown.
6
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried tofu and let it drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
7
Serve the crispy tofu bites immediately, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy with a dipping sauce of your choice!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Golden Deep Fried Tofu Bites?
They are a delightful snack or main dish made from tofu marinated in a blend of Chinese five spice and garlic, then deep-fried until golden and puffy.
How long does it take to marinate the tofu?
The tofu should be allowed to marinate for 1 hour to ensure the flavors soak in properly.
What type of oil is recommended for frying the tofu?
Peanut oil is recommended for this recipe, specifically 2.5 cups for deep frying.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
What spices are used in the marinade?
The marinade consists of sea salt, Chinese five spice powder, sugar, and white pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as its primary protein source is tofu and it uses plant-based ingredients.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic should be very finely chopped before being mixed with the other dry spices.
How long should I deep fry the tofu pieces?
Deep fry the tofu for about 5 minutes until they become puffy and golden-brown.
What is the best way to cut the tofu?
The recipe suggests using 1 lb of tofu (4 pieces) and cutting them in half.
What garnish is suggested for this dish?
The dish is best garnished with 4 chopped green onions.
Should the oil be heated to a specific point?
Yes, the peanut oil should be heated over medium-high heat until it is smoking before adding the tofu.
How do I prevent the pan from overcrowding?
Fry the marinated tofu pieces in batches rather than all at once.
What should I do after removing the tofu from the oil?
Use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
What kind of salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of sea salt.
Can I add a dipping sauce?
Yes, these tofu bites are irresistible when served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Is sugar included in the spice mix?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 tablespoons of sugar in the coating mixture.
What does Chinese five spice powder add to the dish?
It provides a unique blend of aromatic and savory flavors inspired by family traditions.
What equipment is needed for frying?
You can use either a wok or a deep frying pan.
How do I ensure the tofu is evenly coated?
Add each piece of tofu one at a time to the spice mixture and turn them gently.
What color should the tofu be when finished?
The tofu should be a beautiful golden-brown color.
How much white pepper is needed?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of white pepper.
Is this dish considered a snack or an appetizer?
It is versatile and can be served as both a snack or an appetizer.
Can I serve these cold?
They are best enjoyed when served fresh and hot immediately after frying.
What is the primary category for this recipe?
The recipe falls under the Soy/Tofu category.
How many green onions are used for the garnish?
The recipe calls for 4 chopped green onions.
Does the recipe include nutritional information like calories?
The provided data does not list specific calorie or macronutrient counts.
How much tofu is required in total?
You will need 1 lb of tofu for this recipe.
Why is peanut oil used for deep frying?
Peanut oil is often used in Chinese cuisine for its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to combine sea salt, five spice powder, sugar, white pepper, and garlic in a large mixing bowl.
What texture should the finished tofu have?
The finished tofu bites should have a delightful, crispy crunch.