This Crispy Chili Crunch Tofu is a fun and tasty dish! The tofu gets nice and crispy, while a kick of chili brings extra flavor. It’s perfect for dinner or as a snack!
Honestly, what’s better than crispy tofu? I love how the chili crunch adds a little zing. Just serve it over rice or with veggies, and you have a simple meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up nicely. If you’re in a pinch, silken tofu can be used, but it won’t achieve the same crispiness and might be more delicate to handle.
Cornstarch: This is key for getting that crispy texture on tofu. Arrowroot powder is a great substitute, and it’s also gluten-free! If you don’t have either, you can use flour, but the texture won’t be as crisp.
Chili Crunch Sauce: This sauce is what makes the dish exciting! You can buy it or make your own with chili flakes, oil, and garlic. If you want less heat, mix it with some ketchup or hoisin sauce for a milder flavor.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed works well here for frying. Olive oil can be used, but keep in mind it has a lower smoke point. I prefer using oil with a light flavor that won’t overpower the dish.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Tofu?
Getting that crispy tofu texture can be tricky, but with the right steps, it’s simple! First, pressing the tofu is a crucial step. This removes excess moisture, allowing the cornstarch to stick better. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to drain out the liquid. Use a tofu press or wrap it in a kitchen towel and place something heavy on top.
- Cut the tofu into equal-sized cubes so they cook uniformly. This also creates more surface area for that lovely browning.
- Coat the cubes with cornstarch (or arrowroot) evenly. This is essential for crisping up during frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying! Cook in batches if needed. This ensures each piece has enough room to brown properly.
- Fry on medium-high heat for golden-brown perfection. Flip each piece to cook all sides evenly.
Follow these tips, and your tofu will come out crispy and delicious every time!
Crispy Chili Crunch Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tablespoons chili crunch sauce (store-bought or homemade chili crisp)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or sugar (optional for sweetness)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Mixed salad greens (lettuce, cabbage, cilantro, sliced red bell pepper)
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll have crispy, delicious tofu ready in about 30-35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by draining the tofu. Use a tofu press if you have one, or wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel and place a weight (like a heavy pan) on top. Let it press for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water.
2. Cube the Tofu:
Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. A uniform size helps them cook evenly.
3. Coat the Tofu:
In a bowl, add the tofu cubes and sprinkle the cornstarch over them. Toss lightly until each piece is coated. This coating will help create a nice, crispy texture when they are fried.
4. Cook the Tofu:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil.
5. Make the Chili Crunch Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili crunch sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and maple syrup (if using) until well combined. This sauce is what adds all the flavor to the dish!
6. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour the chili crunch sauce over the tofu and gently toss it all together to coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the tofu to soak up some of that delicious sauce.
7. Assemble the Bowl:
In serving bowls, create a bed of mixed salad greens and add some sliced bell peppers and cilantro on top. Then, place your glazed tofu on top of the salad.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by sprinkling sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the tofu for an added crunch. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh, tangy kick. Enjoy!
Now you have a gorgeous dish that’s not only delicious but perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Another Type of Tofu?
Yes! While firm or extra-firm tofu is recommended for the best texture, you can use soft or silken tofu. Just note that softer types will be more delicate to handle and won’t get as crispy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil to restore some crispiness, or use an air fryer if available.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love more heat, add some additional chili flakes to the sauce or drizzle extra chili crunch sauce over the finished dish. You can also use a spicier chili sauce as a substitute.
What Can I Serve with this Tofu?
This crispy tofu is versatile! It’s fantastic over rice, quinoa, noodles, or served alongside stir-fried vegetables. You can also enjoy it in a grain bowl or wrap for a delicious meal!
