Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's both delectable and easy to whip up? Look no further than this Pan Fried Asian Tofu recipe! With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can indulge in crispy, golden-brown tofu that's bursting with flavor. Perfectly marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce and sesame oil, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also impresses with its vibrant presentation. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will become a go-to favorite that leaves you craving more. Dive into the world of Asian cuisine and discover how simple ingredients can transform into a culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Remove tofu from packaging and press between paper towels or clean kitchen towel for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying.
- Cut pressed tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent browning.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil to create a marinade. Gently toss tofu cubes in this mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over marinated tofu and gently toss to create a light, crispy coating that will help achieve a golden exterior when pan-frying.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of additional sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place tofu cubes in a single layer in the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows each piece to brown properly.
- Cook tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning gently with tongs or a spatula to create a golden-brown, crispy exterior on all sides.
- Once tofu is evenly browned and crispy, remove from heat and transfer to a serving plate.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with steamed rice or your preferred Asian-inspired side dish.
Tips
- Press the Tofu: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture from the tofu is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture. Use a heavy object to help press it down effectively.
- Uniform Cubes: Cut your tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and helps each piece achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
- Marinate Wisely: Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and ensure each bite is deliciously savory.
- Cornstarch Coating: For an extra crispy exterior, make sure to coat the marinated tofu with cornstarch before frying. This simple step can make a world of difference in texture!
- Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, give the tofu enough space in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying, which results in less crispy tofu.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Not only do they add visual appeal, but they also enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy your pan-fried tofu immediately while it’s hot and crispy! Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite Asian-inspired side for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
