She Strengthens

Unlock the Secret to Perfectly Crispy Tofu

Are you tired of serving up soggy, unappetizing tofu dishes? The key to achieving that coveted crispy texture lies in one crucial step: pressing your tofu. Yes, you read that right – pressing your tofu can make all the difference between a mediocre meal and a culinary masterpiece.

Why Pressing Tofu Matters

Commercial tofu is made by condensing soybean milk curds and pressing them into blocks. However, this process leaves behind a significant amount of moisture, which can lead to a mushy texture when cooked. By removing excess liquid, you can ensure your tofu turns out crispy and delicious every time.

Do I Always Need to Press Tofu?

Not all tofu requires pressing. If you’re buying smoked or flavored tofu, it’s likely been drained and pressed already. You can perform a simple moisture test to determine if your tofu needs pressing. Gently dab the surface with a clean kitchen towel; if it absorbs excess moisture, you’ll need to press it.

Pressing Tofu: Methods and Madness

You can use a tofu press or create your own makeshift press using kitchen towels, a plate, and something heavy like a frying pan. Wrap the tofu in towels, place it on the plate, and weigh it down. Leave it in the fridge for a few hours to allow the liquid to drain out.

The Magic of Cornstarch: Achieving Crispy Tofu

Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that will take your tofu from bland to grand. Cut your pressed tofu into cubes, toss them in a mixture of cornstarch, salt, and pepper, and then shallow-fry or bake until crispy and golden.

Crispy Fried Tofu Recipe

• Press and drain excess liquid from your tofu
• Cut into equal cubes
• Toss in a mixture of cornstarch, salt, and pepper
• Heat oil in a pan for shallow frying
• Fry on medium heat for 5-10 minutes, until crispy and golden
• Remove and place on a paper towel-lined bowl to drain excess oil

Crispy Baked Tofu Recipe

• Press and drain excess liquid from your tofu
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
• Line a sheet pan with parchment paper
• Cut tofu into equal cubes
• Toss in a mixture of cornstarch, oil, and soy sauce
• Arrange in an even layer on the sheet pan
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden and crispy

Get Creative with Crispy Tofu Recipes

Now that you’ve mastered the art of crispy tofu, it’s time to experiment with new recipes! Try pan-fried sesame garlic tofu, crispy tofu lettuce wraps with peanut sauce, or sweet and spicy baked firecracker tofu wings. The possibilities are endless!

Takeaway

Say goodbye to soggy tofu forever! By pressing your tofu and using cornstarch, you’ll achieve a crispy texture that will elevate your dishes to new heights. Experiment with different recipes and cooking methods to unlock the full potential of this versatile ingredient.