Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome goodness? Say hello to Fried Tofu with Spicy Ginger Sesame Sauce! This Asian-inspired recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but it also promises a delightful crunch and a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you're a tofu enthusiast or a curious beginner, this dish is a must-try that will impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Firm tofu
- Sesame oil
- Fresh ginger
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
- Chili paste
- Green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: firm tofu, sesame oil, fresh ginger, garlic, soy sauce, chili paste, green onions, and sesame seeds. Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience.
- Drain the firm tofu and press it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispier texture when frying. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch in size.
- In a medium bowl, prepare the spicy ginger sesame sauce. Grate about 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Add these to the bowl along with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of chili paste (adjust the amount based on your spice preference). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers.
- Carefully add the tofu cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to fry them in batches. Fry the tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip the tofu cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Once the tofu is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. If frying in batches, add more sesame oil to the skillet as needed.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the prepared spicy ginger sesame sauce. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, return the fried tofu to the skillet. Gently toss the tofu in the sauce to coat it evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- While the tofu is cooking, chop a few green onions for garnish. After the tofu is well coated and heated through, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the fried tofu with sesame seeds and the chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious Fried Tofu with Spicy Ginger Sesame Sauce!
Tips
- Choose the Right Tofu: For the best results, use firm tofu. This variety holds its shape well during cooking and provides a satisfying texture when fried.
- Press the Tofu: Don't skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy exterior. Use a tofu press or simply wrap the tofu in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 10 minutes.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili paste in the sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more gradually.
- Fry in Batches: To ensure even cooking and crispiness, fry the tofu in batches rather than overcrowding the skillet. This allows the tofu to brown perfectly without steaming.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the dish's flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the fried tofu right after cooking. It’s delicious hot and fresh, making it the perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 59kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
