20-Minute Crispy Tofu: Plant-Based Protein Snack
Tofu is an excellent vegan alternative to paneer, but if you're not a fan due to its bland flavor or odd texture, you should try this crispy tofu.
Initially not enjoying tofu’s taste, I understand the common sentiment of disliking it, as many do. However, worry not, as this easy crispy tofu recipe will surely change your mind and make you fall in love with tofu.
Direct jump to recipeWhen transitioning to a vegan, plant-based diet, I, like you, attempted several times to replace paneer with tofu. Yet, after exploring various tofu recipes and mastering proper cooking techniques, I’ve come to appreciate its flavor. Now, one of my favorite protein-rich evening snacks is crispy tofu, prepared in just 20 minutes.
Tofu is a popular vegan protein made from soybeans. It’s used in many Asian dishes but is gaining popularity worldwide because it’s a complete protein source and can be used in various ways in cooking. It’s loved because it’s versatile – it doesn’t have a strong flavor on its own, so you can add any flavors you want.
Check out : Know your famous bollywood male actors who are vegans
I enjoy tofu in different ways. Sometimes I crumble it and add it to dishes. Other times, I like crispy tofu with soups like barley lentil soup or finger millet soup.
Recipe: Crispy Tofu
While making crispy tofu, it’s important to use a non-stick skillet to prevent the tofu from sticking to the pan while cooking. This ensures that the tofu cooks evenly and gets crispy on the outside. If you don’t have one, try Baked Tofu recipe from acouplecooks. Plus, there’s no need to press the tofu for this quick protein snack.
ingredients
- Tofu: Choose extra-firm tofu, not firm or silken tofu, as they won’t work for this recipe.
- Arrowroot starch or Cornstarch: They play a plays a key role in creating the crunchy texture and crispy edges for your tofu recipe.
- Olive oil: For a healthier option, use olive oil to cook the tofu in a skillet.
- Roasetd sesame seed: To add crunchiness to your recipe, toss some roasted sesame seeds on your tofu while serving. This also makes your dish visually appealing.
- Toasted sesame oil or Soy sauce or smoked soy sauce: After cooking, use toasted sesame oil to season the tofu. For an extra layer of flavor, you might want to use smoked soy sauce (also known as smoked shoyu) if it’s available, as it adds a delightful smoky and savory taste.
How to make Crispy Tofu
- Slice and coat with cornstarch: Cut the tofu into cubes and pat it dry with a towel. Then, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch to coat them evenly.
- Cook first side: Place the tofu cubes in cold oil in the skillet, then gradually heat it to medium. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until one side turns golden brown.
- Flip carefully: To prevent oil splattering, remove the skillet from heat before flipping the tofu cubes using a spatula.
- Cook the other side: Return the skillet to heat and cook the other side of the tofu for another 5 to 6 minutes.
- Season and finish cooking: Add toasted sesame oil and soy sauce to the skillet. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu.
- Dressing with sesame seed: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the recipe before serving to add extra flavor and crunchiness.
Check out : Yep! Vegans can totally get enough protein from plants. Want to know how?
