Crispy Tofu Bites with Zesty Peanut Drizzle
Indulge in these delectable Crispy Tofu Bites that are perfectly fried to achieve a golden-brown exterior while remaining warm and tender on the inside. Paired with a zesty peanut drizzle, this dish serves as a delightful snack or appetizer that tantalizes your taste buds. The tofu bites have a satisfying crunch reminiscent of fries, making them an irresistible treat. The versatile peanut sauce can also double as a tangy salad dressing, ensuring you'll keep this recipe on hand for all occasions. Ideal for gatherings or simply enjoying at home, these bites are sure to impress!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
firm tofu
200 g (drained and pressed)
cornstarch
2 tablespoons (for coating)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
oil
for frying (enough to coat the pan)
peanut butter
1 tablespoon (crunchy or smooth)
soymilk or coconut milk
3 tablespoons (for sauce)
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (for flavor)
soy sauce or oyster sauce
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
chili sauce or ketchup
1 tablespoon (for flavor)
chili flakes
1 dash (for spiciness)
lime juice
1/2 to 1 teaspoon (optional) (for enhancing coconut milk)
Instructions
1
Begin by draining the tofu, pressing it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2
Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
3
Toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until they are well-coated, sprinkle with salt and pepper for flavor.
4
In a non-stick frying pan, heat enough oil to coat the bottom (about 3-4 tablespoons) over medium-high heat.
5
Fry the tofu cubes in batches, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. Cook until all sides are golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
6
Once crispy, remove the tofu from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil, sprinkling with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7
To prepare the zesty peanut drizzle, heat the soymilk or coconut milk in a small saucepan over low heat (or in the microwave).
8
Stir in the peanut butter until smooth, then add the garlic powder, soy sauce (or oyster sauce), chili sauce (or ketchup), and chili flakes. Mix well and adjust seasonings to taste.
9
If you are using coconut milk, add lime juice to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
10
Serve the crispy tofu hot, drizzled with the zesty peanut sauce. Enjoy as a snack or appetizer, perhaps alongside a sweet Chinese dessert like Green Bean Soup for a delightful combination!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein source for this recipe?
The primary protein source for this recipe is firm tofu.
How much tofu is required for the dish?
You will need 200 grams of firm tofu.
What preparation is needed for the tofu before cooking?
The tofu should be drained and pressed gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch is used to coat the tofu cubes to achieve a crispy exterior during frying.
What basic seasonings are used for the tofu?
The tofu is seasoned with salt and pepper.
How should the tofu be cut for even cooking?
The tofu should be cut into uniform, bite-sized cubes.
What type of pan is recommended for frying the tofu?
A non-stick frying pan is recommended for frying the tofu cubes.
How much oil should be used for frying?
You should use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, which is approximately 3-4 tablespoons.
What is the recommended heat setting for frying?
The tofu should be fried over medium-high heat.
How long should each side of the tofu be cooked?
Each side should be cooked for approximately 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
How do you know when the tofu bites are ready?
The tofu bites are ready when all sides are golden brown and crispy.
Why is it important to fry the tofu in batches?
Frying in batches ensures the pan is not overcrowded, which helps the tofu become crispy.
What should be done with the tofu immediately after frying?
The tofu should be placed on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
What are the base liquids for the zesty peanut drizzle?
The base liquid can be either soymilk or coconut milk.
How do you heat the milk for the sauce?
You can heat the milk in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
What kind of peanut butter can I use?
You can use either crunchy or smooth peanut butter.
What flavorings are added to the peanut sauce?
The sauce includes garlic powder, soy sauce (or oyster sauce), chili sauce (or ketchup), and chili flakes.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the seasonings, such as chili flakes, to taste.
When should lime juice be added to the sauce?
If you are using coconut milk as a base, add lime juice to enhance the flavor.
How much lime juice is recommended?
1/2 to 1 teaspoon of lime juice is recommended as an optional addition.
What is the texture of the finished tofu bites?
The bites have a golden-brown, crispy exterior and a warm, tender interior.
What other uses does the peanut sauce have?
The versatile peanut sauce can also double as a tangy salad dressing.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
Is this dish considered a main course?
This dish is ideally served as a snack or an appetizer.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is a vegetarian recipe, especially if using soy sauce and soymilk.
What type of cuisine does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is inspired by Asian cuisine.
How should the dish be served for the best experience?
Serve the crispy tofu hot, drizzled with the prepared zesty peanut sauce.
Can I substitute soy sauce in the sauce?
Yes, you can use oyster sauce as a substitute for soy sauce if desired.
What is a suggested pairing for this dish?
It can be paired with a sweet Chinese dessert like Green Bean Soup.
Is this a difficult recipe to prepare?
No, this is considered an easy recipe that is perfect for gatherings or home snacks.