Salt and Pepper Tofu

Salt and Pepper Tofu is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its crispy texture and bold, aromatic flavours. This vegan-friendly recipe features golden-fried tofu cubes tossed with a fragrant blend of spices, garlic, onions, and chillies, offering a delightful balance of heat and savouriness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The tofu achieves a perfect crunch on the outside while remaining tender inside, infused with a savoury spice mix.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this dish can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetiser, side dish, or main course alongside rice or noodles.
• Customisable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preference by varying the amount of chillies used.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Firm or extra-firm tofu
• Cornstarch
• Sea salt
• White pepper
• Chinese five-spice powder
• Neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, diced
• Green chillies, sliced
• Red chillies, sliced (optional for extra heat)
• Bell pepper, diced
• Spring onions, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
2. Coat the Tofu: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and five-spice powder. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
3. Fry the Tofu: Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same wok, remove excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant.
5. Add Vegetables: Add sliced green and red chillies, diced bell pepper, and chopped spring onions. Stir-fry for a few minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Combine and Serve: Return the fried tofu to the wok. Toss everything together until the tofu is well-coated with the aromatics and spices. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Air-Fried Tofu: For a healthier version, use an air fryer to cook the tofu cubes until crispy.
• Different Proteins: Substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan for a variation in texture and flavour.
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like snow peas or shredded carrots for added nutrition and colour.
• Spice Mix Alternatives: Experiment with adding Sichuan peppercorns or sand ginger powder for a different flavour profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in an air fryer to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the tofu soggy.

FAQs

What type of tofu is best for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu is ideal as it holds its shape during frying and provides a satisfying texture.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, reduce or omit the red chillies to decrease the heat level according to your preference.

Is it possible to bake the tofu instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake the coated tofu cubes in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

What can I serve with Salt and Pepper Tofu?

It pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables complements the dish nicely.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble just before serving to maintain crispiness.

How do I ensure the tofu is crispy?

Ensure the tofu is well-pressed to remove moisture, and the oil is hot enough before frying. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use a different spice mix?

Yes, feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or your favourite seasoning blends to customise the flavour.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free, including the cornstarch and any additional sauces.

How do I store leftover tofu?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Tofu?

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the tofu, making it less desirable upon reheating.

Conclusion

Salt and Pepper Tofu is a delightful dish that combines crispy textures with bold flavours, making it a favourite among tofu enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this savoury treat as a main course or a satisfying appetiser.

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