Crispy Spicy Tofu Bites with Veggie Filling

Spicy Fried Tofu (Tahu Goreng Pedas)

This delectable Indonesian dish features crispy fried tofu stuffed with a savory and spicy vegetable filling. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, it’s a delightful treat for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Ingredients:

For the Tofu:

• 10 pieces of brown tofu, sliced in half and hollowed out

For the Filling:

• 1 large carrot, grated coarsely
• 1/4 head of cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 handful of bean sprouts
• 2 stalks of green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of shallots, thinly sliced

For the Spice Paste:

• 2 cloves of garlic
• 5-7 red bird’s eye chilies

For the Coating:

• 10 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• Water as needed
• Salt, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder to taste
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Sauté the shallots until fragrant.
   • Add the spice paste and cook, stirring constantly, until aromatic.
   • Stir in the hollowed-out tofu bits, along with the green onions, grated carrot, shredded cabbage, and bean sprouts. Season with sugar, salt, and chicken bouillon powder. Add a small amount of water to cook the vegetables until tender.
   • Adjust seasoning to taste. Turn off the heat, remove from the skillet, and let cool. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Coating:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and black pepper.
   • Season with salt and chicken bouillon powder. Gradually add water and mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should have a medium consistency—not too runny or too thick.
   • Incorporate the egg and the remaining green onions, mixing until well combined. Set aside.

3. Stuff the Tofu:

   • Fill each piece of hollowed tofu with the prepared vegetable filling. If possible, use gloves to avoid burning your hands from the chili.

4. Fry the Tofu:

   • Dip each stuffed tofu piece into the prepared batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

   • If you prefer extra heat, serve with sambal sauce or additional sliced bird’s eye chilies for dipping.

Enjoy your Spicy Fried Tofu as a savory snack or a flavorful addition to any meal!