Description
Salt and Pepper Tofu is a crispy, flavorful vegan dish featuring extra-firm tofu cubes coated in a seasoned cornstarch mixture and pan-fried to golden perfection. Enhanced with garlic, green onions, and optional chili and Chinese five spice, this Asian-inspired recipe is perfect as a main course or appetizer and pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Coating
- 14 oz block extra-firm tofu (pressed and cut into cubes)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white or black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Chinese five spice (optional)
For Cooking and Flavoring
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1 small red chili or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
Instructions
- Press tofu: Press the tofu for at least 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Prepare coating: In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, ground white or black pepper, and Chinese five spice if using. Toss the tofu cubes in this mixture until they are evenly coated for a crispy exterior.
- Cook tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add a splash of oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic, sliced green onions, and red chili or red pepper flakes if using for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and softened, infusing the dish with flavor.
- Combine and finish: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the pan with the aromatics. Toss everything together to combine evenly. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil if desired for added depth of flavor. Serve hot immediately.
Notes
- Serve over jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- For an alternative cooking method, you can air fry the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.
- Pressing the tofu well is crucial for achieving the best texture and crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of chili or red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
