Are you a fan of crispy, flavorful food? Do you love the taste and texture of fried tofu but want to mix things up from your usual recipe? Look no further! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering crispy fried tofu recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your cooking.
From classic flavors like garlic butter and teriyaki to bold and spicy options like Szechuan and gochujang, we’re taking the humble block of tofu to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with plant-based cuisine, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of breading and frying tofu, sharing our top tips for achieving that perfect crunch without sacrificing flavor. We’ll also highlight some unique and international flavors you can try at home, from coconut curry to Thai basil. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Fried Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this rich and savory Garlic Butter Fried Tofu recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with aromatic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the garlic-butter mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Remove the tofu from the garlic-butter mixture, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook the tofu for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soy Glazed Crispy Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this easy and flavorful recipe that yields crispy, soy-glazed goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into desired shape
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Cut the tofu into desired shape and place on a plate or tray.
3. Brush both sides of the tofu with the soy glaze mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place the glazed tofu in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with garlic powder to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips: For extra crunch, coat the tofu in cornstarch before frying. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Spicy Szechuan Fried Tofu
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy fried tofu recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the tofu pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Fry the tofu until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain the tofu on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Honey Sriracha Fried Tofu
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the crunch of fried tofu with a sticky honey Sriracha glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Add the tofu cubes to the mixture and toss until coated.
3. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the tofu in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Sriracha sauce.
6. Add the glaze to the fried tofu and toss until coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Fried Tofu Bites
Savory and sweet, these bite-sized tofu morsels are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each tofu cube into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated tofu cubes in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove the fried tofu from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
7. Toss the fried tofu cubes with the teriyaki sauce until evenly coated.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: about 10-12 minutes total
– Cooling and serving time: about 5 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Teriyaki Fried Tofu Bites!
Lemongrass Chili Fried Tofu
Lemongrass Chili Fried Tofu Recipe: A flavorful twist on traditional tofu dishes, this recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass with spicy chili peppers and crispy fried texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together lemongrass, ginger, and chili flakes.
2. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
7. Add lemongrass-ginger-chili mixture to the skillet and stir to combine with onions and garlic.
8. Return tofu to the skillet and toss to coat with the spicy-lemon sauce.
9. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Five-Spice Fried Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this flavorful and crispy Five-Spice Fried Tofu recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder ( Chinese-style blend of cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, five-spice powder, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
2. Add the tofu pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Fry the tofu in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain the fried tofu on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Fried Tofu
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional fried tofu, this recipe is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and sugar.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tofu cubes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, and ginger.
6. Remove fried tofu from the skillet and toss with sweet and sour glaze.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Fried Tofu
Experience the tropical flavors of Asia with this crispy and creamy Coconut Curry Fried Tofu dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Add to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginger Sesame Fried Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this crispy and savory dish, infused with the warmth of ginger and nutty flavor of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove tofu from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge tofu in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
6. Fry tofu in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with sesame seeds while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Fried Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines crispy fried exterior with a sticky maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Maple syrup (about 1/4 cup)
– Soy sauce (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured tofu into cornstarch, then fry in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and soy sauce.
5. Remove fried tofu from oil and brush with maple glaze.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including frying time.
Garlic Parmesan Fried Tofu
Transform ordinary tofu into a crispy, savory delight with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured tofu into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tofu on a plate or tray.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
6. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
7. Add breaded tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Fried Tofu Skewers
Get ready to elevate your barbecue game with these crispy and flavorful BBQ Fried Tofu Skewers!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
2. Add tofu cubes to the mixture and toss until coated evenly.
3. Thread 4-5 pieces of tofu onto each skewer.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry tofu skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Brush BBQ sauce evenly onto the skewers.
8. Serve hot with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo Fried Tofu Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with Buffalo Fried Tofu Nuggets, a twist on classic chicken nuggets that’s perfect for vegan and non-vegan alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup vegan buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: ranch dressing or blue cheese crumbles for dipping
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each tofu piece into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Fry coated tofu nuggets in hot oil (about 350°F) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove fried nuggets from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Toss fried nuggets in buffalo sauce until fully coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with ranch dressing or blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Gochujang Fried Tofu
Korean Gochujang Fried Tofu Recipe
Spice up your meal with this bold and savory Korean-inspired dish! Pan-seared tofu gets a boost of flavor from gochujang, a fermented chili paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add tofu cubes; cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt.
5. Pour the glaze over the tofu; stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Satay Fried Tofu
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this crispy and savory Peanut Satay Fried Tofu dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, garlic, soy sauce, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, and breadcrumbs.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the peanut satay mixture.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the tofu for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Fried Tofu
Lemon Herb Fried Tofu Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional fried tofu, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs for a flavorful and crispy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip tofu cubes into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove tofu from skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest and lemon juice.
6. Toss fried tofu with the lemon mixture, ensuring all pieces are coated.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso Glazed Fried Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this sweet and savory Miso Glazed Fried Tofu recipe! A perfect combination of crispy exterior and tender interior, smothered in a rich miso glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
5. Brush the glaze on the fried tofu cubes during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Fried Tofu
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make dish that combines crispy tofu, fragrant basil, and savory sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and Thai red curry paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves and serve over jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Lime Fried Tofu
Elevate your tofu game with this flavorful and crispy Chili Lime Fried Tofu recipe! Marinated in a zesty mixture of chili flakes, lime juice, and herbs, then pan-fried to perfection, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together chili flakes, lime juice, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add tofu pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove tofu from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Pan-fry tofu for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 20 crispy fried tofu recipes! From savory and spicy to sweet and sour, this collection offers a variety of flavors and cooking methods. Try garlic butter fried tofu, soy glazed crispy tofu, or spicy Szechuan fried tofu for a flavor boost. Or, indulge in honey sriracha fried tofu bites or teriyaki fried tofu bites for a sweet and tangy treat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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