Deep-fried Tofu Fritters with Mixed Berry Salsa

Deep-fried Tofu Fritters with Mixed Berry Salsa Recipe | Vegetarian Taiwanese Delight

Region / culture: Taiwan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa is a delicious and unique dish that combines the crispy texture of fried tofu with the sweet and tangy flavors of a mixed berry salsa. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option that is both flavorful and satisfying.

History

Tofu, also known as bean curd, has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. It is made by coagulating soy milk and then pressing the curds into blocks. Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, soups, and salads. In this recipe, tofu is deep-fried to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and creamy interior.

Ingredients

Fritters

50 g self-raising flour (2 oz)
100 ml water (4 fl oz)
salt and freshly ground pepper
vegetable oil for frying
1 x 285 g tofu, cut into chunks

Mixed Berry Salsa

2 tbsp caster sugar
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
300 g mixed berries, e.g. red currants, black currants, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries (10 oz)
2 shallots, finely diced

How to prepare

Prepare the salsa by combining the ingredients.
In a pan, gently heat the vinegar and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
Add the berries and shallots to the pan and poach them gently for 10 minutes until they become soft.
Allow the mixture to cool.
To make the batter, place the flour in a bowl and gradually whisk in the water.
Heat the oil in a deep pan until it becomes hot.
Dip the tofu in the batter and deep fry it for 1 – 2 minutes until the batter becomes crispy.
Serve the tofu immediately with the salsa.

Variations

Try using different types of berries in the salsa, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Add a touch of heat to the salsa by including a finely diced jalapeno or red chili pepper.
Experiment with different seasonings in the batter, such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to press the tofu before cutting it into chunks to remove excess moisture and improve the texture.

- Use a deep pan and enough oil to fully submerge the tofu when frying to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

- Be careful when frying the tofu, as hot oil can splatter. Use a splatter guard if necessary.

- Serve the fritters immediately after frying to maintain their crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa as a main dish with steamed rice or a side salad for a complete meal. It can also be served as an appetizer or snack for a party or gathering.

Cooking Techniques

Poaching the berries and shallots in the vinegar and sugar mixture helps to soften them and infuse them with flavor.

- Deep-frying the tofu in a hot oil bath creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and creamy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have self-raising flour, you can use all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder.

- Substitute the mixed blueberries with any other type of berries or fruit for the salsa.

Make Ahead Tips

The salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- The tofu can be cut into chunks and stored in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the deep-fried tofu fritters on a platter with the mixed berry salsa drizzled on top for a colorful and appetizing presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or mint, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a cucumber salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fritters and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, place the fritters on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Reheat the salsa in a saucepan over low heat until warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium. The mixed berry salsa provides vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants from the berries.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and gluten from the tofu and self-raising flour. It may also contain nuts if added to the salsa.

Summary

Deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the crispy texture of fried tofu with the sweet and tangy flavors of a mixed berry salsa. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and vegans looking for a unique and delicious meal option.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria, who was known for her delicious and inventive dishes. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the enticing aroma of frying tofu and the sweet tang of berries.

Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I have something special to share with you today," she said, leading me to the kitchen counter where a platter of golden-brown tofu fritters sat next to a bowl of vibrant mixed berry salsa.

I watched in awe as Maria expertly dipped the tofu slices into a light batter and carefully lowered them into the hot oil, causing a satisfying sizzle. The fritters turned a beautiful shade of gold as they fried, becoming crispy and irresistible.

As I helped Maria prepare the mixed berry salsa, she shared the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her grandmother, who had picked up the recipe from a traveling chef many years ago. Each generation had added their own twist to the dish, creating a unique and flavorful combination of flavors.

Maria explained that the key to making perfect deep-fried tofu fritters was to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess water and ensure a crispy texture. She also showed me how to make the salsa, combining fresh berries, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey for sweetness.

After the fritters were cooked to perfection, Maria arranged them on a platter and topped them with the vibrant berry salsa. The colors and aromas mingled together, creating a feast for the senses.

I eagerly took a bite of the tofu fritter, savoring the crisp exterior and the soft, creamy interior. The burst of sweet and tangy flavors from the berry salsa paired perfectly with the savory tofu, creating a harmonious balance of tastes.

Maria smiled as she watched me enjoy the dish, knowing that she had passed on a treasured family recipe to me. I thanked her profusely for sharing the recipe and promised to make it for my own family and friends.

From that day on, deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I loved experimenting with different types of tofu and berries, adding my own twist to the recipe while still honoring the tradition passed down to me by Maria.

Whenever I made the dish, the memories of that warm summer day with Maria would come flooding back, reminding me of the joy and connection that food can bring. I cherished the recipe as a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the love that goes into every meal I prepare.

And as I shared the recipe with my own grandchildren, passing on the knowledge and love that had been given to me, I knew that the deep-fried tofu fritters with mixed berry salsa would continue to be a beloved dish for generations to come.