Crispy Fried Tofu
This crispy fried tofu is perfectly seasoned with the best crunch that will be great on its own or in so many dishes.
Servings: 24 pieces
Calories: 40kcal
Equipment
- Deep Fryer or Large heavy bottomed pot
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu
Seasonings (bowl 1)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Wet batter (bowl 2)
- ½ cup dairy free milk (we like oat)
- 1 ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Breading (Bowl 3)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sub for cornmeal if gluten free)
- ¼ cup cornstarch (sub for arrowroot powder)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
For Frying
- high smoke point oil for frying (omit if using air fryer)
Instructions
- Place tofu, in package, in the freezer and freeze overnight.*This step is crucial for texture, don't skip.
- Defrost by sitting out until thawed or microwaving for 10-15 minutes at a time.
- Press tofu out for 30 mins by using a tofu press.*See post for details if you don't have a press.
- Carefully pat dry any excess moisture with a towel.
- Cut the tofu in half lengthwise, then diagonal to end up with 4 strips, then cut the opposite way to get cubes.
- In 3 separate shallow bowls or dishes, mix together the ingredients for the seasoning, wet batter, and breading. Set up an assembly line.
- Bring a deep fryer or heavy bottom oil with oil to 375˚F (can use a heavy bottom skillet or pot if needed)*See post if you'd prefer to air fryer
- Evenly rub the seasoning mixture all over your tofu pieces.
- Dip each piece into the wet mixture, then the breading, then back into the wet and back into the breading. Coat evenly.
- Add tofu to oil and cook 2-3 mins until golden brown.
- Place on paper towels or drying rack to let cool down. Repeat with all tofu.
Video
Notes
This is the tofu press that we use.
*You can air fry these. You can turn them into nuggets, tenders or patties. Get these tips and more in the post above.
Nutrition
Serving: 1piece | Calories: 40kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 281mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 220IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg