Salt and Pepper Tofu is a delightful dish that brings together the subtle flavors of tofu with the boldness of salt and pepper. This recipe is inspired by the classic Cantonese dish, often found in Chinese restaurants. The tofu is lightly coated, fried to a perfect crisp, and then tossed with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. It’s a vegan-friendly dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or a main course. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and explore some common questions about making the perfect Salt and Pepper Tofu.
Ingredients:
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1-2 red or green chilies, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tofu:
- Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. You can use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top. Let it press for at least 15 minutes.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles.
- Coat the Tofu:
- In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and Sichuan peppercorn powder (if using). Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
- Fry the Tofu:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of tofu into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown, the oil is ready.
- Fry the tofu in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the Aromatics:
- In a separate large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, green onions, chilies, and bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the fried tofu to the skillet with the aromatics. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat through.
- Transfer the Salt and Pepper Tofu to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this dish hot as an appetizer or main course.
FAQs:
1. Can I bake the tofu instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake the tofu for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
- Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe as it holds its shape well during frying and has a nice, chewy texture.
3. How do I store leftover Salt and Pepper Tofu?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
4. Can I use a different type of pepper?
- Yes, you can use black pepper if you don’t have white pepper. Sichuan peppercorns add a unique flavor, but they can be omitted if unavailable.
5. What can I serve with Salt and Pepper Tofu?
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or a simple green salad. It also makes a great addition to a larger Chinese-inspired meal with dishes like stir-fried vegetables or noodles.
6. How do I make the tofu extra crispy?
- To make the tofu extra crispy, ensure it is well-pressed to remove as much moisture as possible. Coating the tofu evenly with cornstarch and frying at the right temperature also helps achieve a crispy texture.
7. Is Salt and Pepper Tofu gluten-free?
- Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used, such as cornstarch and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
8. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Enjoy making and savoring this crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu! It’s a versatile and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. If you have any more questions or need further tips, feel free to ask.