How to Fry Tofu
Learn how to fry tofu using this step-by-step guide and enjoy this hearty and versatile superfood in a variety of delicious recipes!
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Cook Time5 minutes mins
Press20 minutes mins
Total Time30 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 133kcal
- 1 package (12 ounces) firm tofu
- canola oil
Pan-fry
In a pan over medium heat, add about 2 tablespoons of oil and swirl to fully coat bottom of pan. Heat until oil begins to shimmer but not smoking.
Add tofu in a single layer and cook until it begins to crisp, then turn. to brown other side.
WAIT until tofu begins to brown before turning or they will stick to pan and fall apart. Remove from pan and drain on a wire rack.
Deep-fry
In deep, wide pan, heat about 2-inches deep of oil to 350 F.
Add tofu and cook, turning as needed, for about 2 to 3 minutes or until golden and crisp. Do not overcrowd pan and cook in batches as needed.
With a slotted spoon, remove from pan and drain on a wire rack.
Oven-Bake
Preheat oven to 400 F.
In bowl, toss tofu cubes with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. If you want a super crispy texture, sprinkle in about 1 tablespoon of corn starch and toss to evenly coat.
Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 20 to 30 minutes or until edges are golden-brown, turning halfway through.
Remove from pan and keep warm.
Air-fry
Spray the air-fryer basket or tray with cooking spray.
In a bowl, toss cubes with about 1 tablespoon of corn starch to coat. Arrange in a single layer in the basket. Do not overload and cook the tofu in batches as needed.
Spray the tofu with cooking spray and air-fry at 375 F for about 15 to 20 minutes or golden and crisp. Shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning.
Remove from the air-fryer and keep warm.
- Drain the tofu well. Wrap with a thick layer of paper towels to absorb the excess liquid.
- For an extra crispy texture, press the tofu to extract moisture. You can use a kitchen tool called a tofu press or just set the wrapped tofu on a wire rack and weigh it down with a plate or bowl for about 15 to 20 minutes until dry to the touch.
- Cut to a uniform size to ensure even cooking.
Calories: 133kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 3mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 1mg