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Crispy Szechuan Tofu

Crispy Szechuan Tofu: A Spicy Vegan Game Changer

Crispy Szechuan Tofu is a delightful vegan dish that combines bold flavors and a satisfying crunch.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Szechuan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Firm or extra-firm tofu Best for crispy texture
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch For coating the tofu
For Frying
  • 3 tablespoons Sunflower, peanut, or canola oil For frying
For the Szechuan Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Tamari or soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon Chili flakes Adjust per heat preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground black pepper Optional but recommended
  • 1 tablespoon Maple syrup Or agave syrup as substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce or sambal oelek Adjust per spice level
  • 1 tablespoon Rice wine vinegar For necessary acidity
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground dried ginger Or use fresh ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five spice Substitute with star anise or cinnamon
For Veggies
  • 1 cup Red pepper Or substitute with your choice of vegetables
  • 2 scallions Chopped scallions For garnish

Equipment

  • Non-stick sauté pan
  • medium bowl
  • paper towels
  • Heavy object for pressing

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Press tofu by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare Szechuan sauce by combining all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk together.
  3. After pressing, pat tofu dry and cut it into cubes. Coat with cornstarch evenly.
  4. Heat oil in a sauté pan and fry tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Sauté chopped red pepper in the same pan for about 5 minutes until softened.
  6. Combine fried tofu and red pepper in the pan, pour in the Szechuan sauce, and toss to coat.
  7. Serve the crispy Szechuan tofu garnished with chopped scallions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 16gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

To maintain crispiness, avoid reheating in the microwave. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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