Description
Crispy Marinated Tofu is a savory and satisfying dish that brings together the delicious combination of crispy, golden-brown tofu with a flavorful, aromatic marinade. Perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to perfection, this tofu is crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed addition to a salad, stir-fry, or bowl, or simply craving a delicious plant-based snack, this crispy marinated tofu is a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and incredibly tasty.
Ingredients
Scale
- 14 oz block of firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Firm Tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape during cooking and absorbs the flavors of the marinade while maintaining a satisfying texture when fried.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami-rich depth to the marinade, while tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Rice Vinegar: The rice vinegar adds a subtle tang to balance out the sweetness of the syrup in the marinade.
- Maple Syrup or Agave Syrup: A touch of sweetness helps to enhance the umami flavors, creating a balanced, flavorful profile.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the tofu and gives it an authentic Asian-inspired taste.
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu and Marinade:
- Press the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top (like a cast-iron skillet or a few cans) for about 10-15 minutes to press out the liquid.
- Cut the Tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or slabs, depending on your preference for size.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Marinate the Tofu: Place the tofu cubes into the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more intense flavor).
Fry the Tofu:
- Coat with Cornstarch: After marinating, sprinkle the tofu cubes with cornstarch. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly—this helps achieve the crispy texture.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Tofu: Add the tofu cubes to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the tofu cubes gently to ensure they cook evenly.
- Drain the Tofu: Once crispy and golden, remove the tofu from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serve the Tofu:
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, stir-fried vegetables, or in a salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 15g