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crispy tofu cubes in paper lined bowl
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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
Cook Time5 minutes
Press20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 133kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 package (12 ounces) firm tofu
  • canola oil

Instructions

  • Remove tofu from packaging and drain from packing liquid. Wrap in paper towels, set over a wire rack or colander and weigh down with a saucer or cup for about 15 to 20 minutes to extract moisture.
  • Cut into 1-inch cubes.

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.

Notes

  • 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.

Nutrition

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