Craving a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Crispy Fried Egg Tofu with Chili & Salt! This recipe transforms simple firm tofu into golden-brown, crispy delights, perfectly seasoned with a fiery chili and salty kick. Forget bland tofu – this recipe delivers a textural masterpiece, with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, fluffy interior. It's the perfect appetizer, side dish, or even a satisfying light meal on its own. The vibrant chili and salt seasoning complements the tofu beautifully, creating a dish that's both simple and sophisticated.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this dish is surprisingly quick and easy to whip up. Ready to learn how to achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful tofu? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this delicious and addictive Crispy Fried Egg Tofu with Chili & Salt.
Tools Needed
- Large tray or box
- Sieve
- 38cm Stainless steel pan (Zebra brand recommended)
- 31cm Selectra pan (recommended)
Ingredients
- Fried egg tofu
- All-purpose flour
- Garlic
- Red chili
- Spring onion
- Sugar
- Salt
- Seasoning powder
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Batter the Tofu
- Chop garlic, red chili, and spring onion. Cut the egg tofu into desired pieces (cubes recommended).
- Add the cut egg tofu to a large tray or box. Add all-purpose flour and mix until the flour coats the tofu evenly. A sieve can be used to remove excess flour.
Step 2. Fry the Tofu to Perfection
- Heat oil in a 38cm stainless steel pan over medium heat until hot enough. Test by sprinkling flour into the oil – it should sizzle and puff up.
- Carefully add the battered tofu to the hot oil. Do not stir immediately; let it sit for a moment to allow the flour to set. Then stir occasionally, frying over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
- Once the tofu is golden brown and cooked through, remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Step 3. Sauté Aromatics and Season
- In a 31cm Selectra pan, fry the chopped garlic over medium heat with a little salt until golden and crispy. Set aside some fried garlic for garnish and some for mixing with the tofu.
- Use the remaining oil from frying the garlic. Add the chopped chili and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the fried egg tofu to the pan with the chili. Season with salt, sugar, and seasoning powder (optional). Stir well to combine.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with remaining fried garlic and chopped spring onions. Serve hot with rice or as a snack.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- For softer tofu, fry for a shorter time. For crispier tofu, fry for a longer time.
- Adding a little water to the garlic while frying helps keep it crispy.
- Fry the garlic separately to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Use a stainless steel pan without coating for best results.
- Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-300
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use silken tofu instead of firm tofu?
No, silken tofu is too soft and will likely crumble during frying. Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for achieving a crispy exterior.
2. How can I make the tofu extra crispy?
Pressing the tofu to remove excess water is key. Also, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the tofu and don't overcrowd the pan.
3. What can I substitute for chili flakes?
You can use a chili powder or a finely chopped fresh chili pepper, adjusting the amount to your preferred spice level.
This Crispy Fried Egg Tofu with Chili & Salt recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish. Enjoy this versatile recipe as a standalone appetizer, a delicious side to your favorite meal, or a protein-packed addition to a bowl. We hope you enjoy this easy and delicious recipe!