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Crispy Szechuan Tofu

Crispy Szechuan Tofu: Your New Flavorful Vegan Obsession

Indulge in Crispy Szechuan Tofu, a flavorful vegan dish that is quick to make and gluten-free.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dishes
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu Best texture and protein content.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Crucial for crispy exterior.
For Frying
  • oil sunflower, peanut, or canola Choose your favorite frying oil.
For the Sauté
  • 1 medium red pepper Can swap with seasonal veggies.
  • 2 stalks scallions For garnish.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup tamari or soy sauce Tamari for gluten-free.
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes Adjust according to spice tolerance.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper Fresh ground is ideal.
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup Balances spicy and savory.
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha or Sambal Oelek For extra spiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar Adds acidity.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced fresh garlic for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground dried ginger For warmth and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice For classic Asian flair.

Equipment

  • non-stick sauté pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Paper Towels
  • heavy object (e.g., skillet or plate)

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Press the firm tofu by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for 30 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, chili flakes, ground black pepper, maple syrup, Sriracha, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and Chinese five spice.
  3. After pressing, pat the tofu dry and cut into bite-sized cubes, then toss in cornstarch.
  4. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, add tofu cubes, and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Remove fried tofu and add chopped red pepper to the pan, sauté for 5 minutes.
  6. Return tofu to the pan with red pepper, pour sauce over, and cook for an additional minute.
  7. Serve in bowls, garnished with scallions, alongside steamed rice or quinoa.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Press tofu well and store leftovers separately to maintain crunchiness. Can freeze for up to 2 months.

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