Crispy Fried Tofu Bites
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Firm Tofu | 300g |
| Soy Sauce | 50g |
| Fresh Rosemary | To taste |
| Fresh Sage | To taste |
| All-Purpose Flour | 200g |
| Water | 300g |
| Fine Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Bread Crumbs | 100g |
| Rosemary (ground) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fine Salt (for breading) | 1 teaspoon |
| Vegetable Oil (for frying) | As needed |
Instructions
-
Marinate the Tofu:
Begin by cutting the firm tofu into 2.5 cm cubes. Place the tofu cubes in a shallow dish and pour over the soy sauce. Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and a couple of sage leaves. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the tofu marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the breading and batter. -
Prepare the Breading:
In a shallow bowl, pour the breadcrumbs and mix in a pinch of fine salt. This will give your tofu a flavorful crispy crust. Set this aside. -
Make the Batter:
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with a pinch of fine salt. Gradually add water, whisking to create a smooth, slightly thick batter. Adjust the water as needed to get the right consistency. The batter should be thick enough to coat the tofu but not too runny. -
Fry the Tofu:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat to around 170°C (340°F). While the oil is heating, take the marinated tofu cubes and, using tongs, dip them into the prepared batter. Allow excess batter to drip off before rolling them in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure an even coating. -
Frying the Tofu:
Fry the tofu cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Use a slotted spoon to gently lower the tofu pieces into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn the pieces occasionally for even frying. -
Drain and Serve:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve the crispy fried tofu hot, either on a bed of fresh salad greens and radishes or as a stand-alone appetizer.
Tips and Variations:
- You can customize the marinade with garlic or a splash of lemon juice for added flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Experiment with other herbs, like thyme or oregano, in the batter or breadcrumbs to give the tofu a unique twist.
Enjoy this crispy, savory tofu snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a light meal, these fried tofu bites are sure to impress!
