Crispy Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Welcome to the vibrant and flavorful world of tofu, a staple ingredient in many cuisines that is known for its incredible versatility. Tofu, made from soybeans, has long been celebrated as a key protein source for vegans and vegetarians, but its appeal extends far beyond these dietary preferences. With the right preparation and seasoning, tofu can be transformed into a dish that satisfies even the most discerning palates. One such delightful creation is Crispy Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce—a dish that perfectly balances textures and flavors, showcasing the tofu's ability to absorb and complement bold ingredients.

Crispy Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Discover the vibrant flavors of crispy tofu with spicy peanut sauce, a dish that showcases tofu's versatility and ability to absorb bold flavors. This recipe features perfectly crispy tofu that contrasts beautifully with a creamy, spicy peanut sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and sriracha. With its rich texture and aesthetic appeal, this dish is a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire. Easy to prepare and packed with protein, it's perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Enjoy this nutritious and satisfying meal!

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Tofu:

14 oz firm tofu, drained

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying

For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)

1 teaspoon sriracha (or more, based on your heat preference)

2 tablespoons warm water (to adjust sauce consistency)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Chopped peanuts and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu:

- Begin by draining the tofu and then pressing it under a heavy weight (such as a cast-iron skillet or a few cans) for 15-20 minutes. This process helps to remove excess moisture, which is essential for achieving a crispy texture.

- After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes for frying.

Coat the Tofu:

- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

- Gently toss the tofu cubes in the spice mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated for optimal flavor and crispiness.

Fry the Tofu:

- Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot before adding the tofu.

- Carefully place the coated tofu cubes in a single layer in the skillet (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Fry the tofu until it is golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.

- Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce:

- In a clean mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sriracha, and sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

- To achieve your desired sauce consistency, gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until you reach a pourable consistency.

Serve:

- Arrange the crispy tofu on a serving platter and drizzle generously with the spicy peanut sauce. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the interactive dining experience.

- For garnishing, sprinkle with chopped peanuts and sliced green onions for a fresh and crunchy contrast.

Enjoy:

- Pair the crispy tofu with steamed jasmine rice or a medley of sautéed vegetables for a satisfying, well-rounded meal!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4