Crispy Stuffed Tofu Bites with Spicy Vegetable Filling

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 15 small fried tofu pieces
• 2 ounces cabbage, cleaned and chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 handful bean sprouts, cleaned
• 29 small red chilies

For the Spice Paste:

• 4 cloves garlic
• 6 shallots
• 3 candlenuts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon mushroom bouillon

For the Batter:

• 200 grams all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons tapioca starch
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon mushroom bouillon
• 3 candlenuts
• 1 stalk green onion
• Enough water for mixing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu:

   • Slice the pre-fried tofu pieces in half, creating a pocket for the filling. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • Thinly slice the cabbage, carrots, and clean the bean sprouts. Set aside.
   • In a blender or food processor, grind the red chilies into a coarse paste.
   • Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the ground chili paste along with the sliced vegetables. Cook until fragrant and vegetables are slightly tender. Season with salt, sugar, and mushroom bouillon to taste. Once done, set the filling mixture aside.

3. Prepare the Batter:

   • In a blender, combine garlic, candlenuts, salt, and mushroom bouillon, blending until smooth.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, tapioca starch, and the garlic-candlenut paste. Gradually add water to form a thick batter. Finely chop the green onions and mix them into the batter.

4. Stuff the Tofu:

   • Carefully fill each tofu pocket with the prepared vegetable filling, ensuring they are packed tightly.

5. Coat and Fry:

   • Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Dip each stuffed tofu piece into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated.
   • Fry the tofu pieces in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove and drain on paper towels.

6. Serve:

   • Serve the crispy stuffed tofu bites warm. Enjoy as a delightful appetizer or snack!

Feel free to experiment with the filling ingredients or spice levels to suit your taste. Enjoy the crunchiness of the tofu combined with the flavorful stuffing!