Description
This Salt and Pepper tofu is deep-fried until crispy, then perfectly seasoned with a bold, signature kick of white pepper and jalapeños. Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or noodles for a crave-worthy, takeout-style dinner.
Ingredients
Fried tofu:
- 1 block (16 oz) extra-firm tofu, cubed
- 4 cups water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Seasoning blend:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or taste
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- Pinch of sugar
Remaining ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 scallions, sliced with whites and greens separated
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
Equipment Needed
- Small and large pot
- Kitchen towel or paper towels
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Wire rack
- Wok or large skillet
- Spatula
Instructions
Fry the tofu
- Simmer the tofu. Bring 4 cups of water and 2 teaspoons of salt to a boil in a small pot. Add the tofu cubes and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain the tofu, then transfer to a kitchen towel and allow to dry.
- Prep for frying. Heat a pot of oil to 350F. Meanwhile, combine the cornstarch and white pepper in a large bowl.
- Fry the tofu in batches. Once the oil is heated, add half the tofu to the cornstarch mixture and toss until coated. Gently drop the coated tofu pieces into the oil and fry until crispy, about 4 minutes, tossing occasionally. Transfer to a wire rack, then repeat with the remaining tofu.
Season the tofu
- Combine the seasoning blend. In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, white pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and whites of the scallions. Sauté until fragrant and the scallions are slightly softened, about 1 minute. Reduce the heat to medium low.
- Add the tofu and jalapeño. Add the crispy tofu and jalapeño slices and mix together. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the tofu and toss together. Taste and add more salt as necessary.
- Serve. Top with the remaining scallion greens and enjoy!
Notes
- Gluten-free: In addition to being completely vegan, this crispy tofu recipe is also gluten-free. If you add a dipping sauce or extra seasoning, just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Storage: Since this crispy tofu is fried, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
- Reheating: Use a hot wok or air fryer to help restore crispiness as much as possible. Avoid microwaving – it will make the tofu soft and soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stove Top