Crispy Tahu Aci Walik: An Economical Delight
Discover a delightful, crispy snack with this recipe for Tahu Aci Walik, a popular Indonesian treat that’s both budget-friendly and delicious. This crispy tofu recipe, known for its satisfying crunch and flavorful interior, is perfect for a snack or a light meal. Here’s how you can make this crispy tofu treat from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 10 pieces of pre-fried tofu (preferably triangular)
- 7 tablespoons tapioca flour (sagu)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 50 ml hot water
- Sliced green onions (for added freshness)
- Seasoning (such as Royco or your preferred brand)
For the spice paste:
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 shallots
- 1 candlenut
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried shrimp (ebi)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Tofu:
- Start by using pre-fried tofu. Rinse the tofu pieces under running water to remove excess oil, then gently squeeze out any excess moisture. Let them drain thoroughly.
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Prepare the Spice Paste:
- In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind together the garlic, shallots, candlenut, black pepper, coriander, salt, and dried shrimp until you have a smooth paste. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
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Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour, all-purpose flour, sliced green onions, and the prepared spice paste. Gradually add the hot water while stirring continuously until the batter is well mixed and smooth. The batter should be slightly thick but still spreadable. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour to achieve the right consistency.
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Stuff the Tofu:
- Make a slit on one side of each tofu piece, then carefully turn the inside of the tofu outwards, creating a pocket. Fill each pocket with the prepared batter, making sure it’s well coated.
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Fry the Tofu:
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the stuffed tofu pieces into the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This process should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on your stove and the size of the tofu pieces. Ensure that the tofu is evenly fried by turning them occasionally.
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Drain and Serve:
- Remove the crispy tofu from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve hot for the best crunch.
Optional Variation:
- For a different texture, you can also steam the tofu instead of frying. If you choose to steam, simply place the stuffed tofu in a steamer and steam for about 10-15 minutes, but note that the texture will be softer and less crispy compared to the fried version.
Enjoy your Tahu Aci Walik as a savory snack or as a side dish with your favorite meal. Its crispy exterior and flavorful interior make it a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
