Chinese Salt and Pepper Tofu
Crispy, flavorful, and utterly addictive, Chinese Salt and Pepper Tofu is a plant-based delight that combines bold Asian flavors with restaurant-quality texture. Perfectly pressed firm tofu is tossed in a seasoned cornstarch coating, fried to golden perfection, and then stir-fried with aromatic garlic, spring onions, and fiery red chilies. A finishing sprinkle of black pepper and a hint of sugar balance the spice with just the right touch of sweetness. The result? A dish bursting with crunchy, savory goodness that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Serve hot with an optional drizzle of soy sauce for added umami, and enjoy a simple, 35-minute recipe that's sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 grams Firm tofu
- 5 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon White pepper
- 250 milliliters Vegetable oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 stalks Spring onions, finely chopped
- 2 Red chili, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture: Place the tofu block on a plate, cover it with a paper towel or clean kitchen cloth, and place a weight (such as a heavy pan) on top. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with a paper towel.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture until all sides are evenly coated.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). Test by dropping a small piece of tofu into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
Fry the tofu cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels.
In a separate large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic, chopped spring onions, and red chili to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
Add the fried tofu to the skillet and toss well to coat the tofu with the aromatics.
Sprinkle in the black pepper and sugar, continuing to toss for 1-2 minutes to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the tofu to a serving dish. Optionally, drizzle the dish with soy sauce before serving.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
680 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 63.3 g | 81% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.1 g | 46% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 35.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 967 mg | 42% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17.9 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.6 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.8 g | ||
| Protein | 17.0 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 703 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 466 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
