Chili crisp is a crunchy chili oil condiment made with fried chilies, garlic, and other aromatics. It adds heat, texture, and savory flavor. Lao Gan Ma is a popular brand.

It depends on your chili crisp. Most are mild to medium. Use more or less to control the heat, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your chili crisp is gluten-free.

Why isn't my tofu crispy?

Make sure the tofu is well-pressed and evenly coated in cornstarch, the oil is hot before adding the tofu, and you're not crowding the pan.

Easy Chili Crisp Tofu

Name: Easy Chili Crisp Tofu
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons neutral oil; 2 tablespoons chili crisp; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; Pinch of sugar; Green onions, sliced; Toasted sesame seeds

Description

A quick and easy Chili Crisp Tofu ready in about 20 minutes with just a few pantry staples. Serve it over rice, toss it into noodles, or just eat it straight from the pan.

Ingredients

1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons neutral oil
2 tablespoons chili crisp
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Pinch of sugar
Green onions, sliced
Toasted sesame seeds

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep the tofu. Drain and press the tofu for at least 10 minutes. Once pressed, cut into about 1-inch cubes.
Coat the tofu. Add the tofu cubes to a large bowl with the cornstarch and salt. Gently toss until the tofu is evenly coated.
Fry the tofu. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu in a single layer. Fry evenly, flipping often so that all sides are golden brown. Remove from heat.
Prep the sauce. To a small bowl, add the chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. Mix and adjust seasonings to taste, adding more sugar or soy sauce to preference–it will depend on your brand of chili crisp.
Add the sauce to the tofu. Pour the sauce over the tofu and toss to combine. Top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Serve as desired and enjoy!

Notes

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The tofu will soften as it sits.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the air fryer to bring back some crispiness. The microwave will make it soft.
Best fresh: This dish is at its crispiest right after cooking, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stove Top
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired