Spicy Fried Tofu

Spicy Fried Tofu Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: This recipe serves 2 to 3 people generously.

Introduction

Spicy Fried Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for vegetarians and tofu lovers alike. The combination of spices and seasonings creates a delicious and aromatic dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The origins of Spicy Fried Tofu can be traced back to Asian cuisine, where tofu is a staple ingredient. Tofu is a versatile and nutritious food that is often used in vegetarian and vegan cooking. The addition of spices and seasonings in this recipe gives the tofu a bold and spicy flavor that is irresistible.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) tofu
0.5 tsp turmeric
0.5 tsp sweet basil
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp curry powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce

How to prepare

Drain the tofu, pat it dry, and cut it into 0.5 inch cubes.
Heat some oil in a pan and sauté the tofu over high heat for 5 minutes.
Pour out any excess water, reduce the heat, and add turmeric. Stir until the tofu is uniformly yellow, then add basil, thyme, cumin, and curry powder. Add garlic (and a little more oil if needed to prevent sticking). Increase the heat and add soy sauce. Sauté until the tofu turns golden brown.
Serve the tofu either in pita bread or rolled-up tortillas with shredded lettuce and Cheddar cheese. Feel free to use any of your favorite toppings. This dish tastes even better the next day.
This recipe serves 2 to 3 people generously.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Use different spices and seasonings to create a unique flavor profile.
Substitute the tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different protein source.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the tofu well before cooking to remove excess water and ensure a crispy texture.

- Sauté the tofu over high heat to achieve a golden brown color and crispy exterior.

- Adjust the amount of spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

- Serve the Spicy Fried Tofu with your favorite toppings and accompaniments for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spicy Fried Tofu in pita bread or rolled-up tortillas with shredded lettuce and Cheddar cheese. Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as salsa, avocado, or sour cream.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the tofu over high heat to achieve a crispy exterior and golden brown color. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

- Use any type of tofu such as firm or extra firm depending on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Spicy Fried Tofu ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Spicy Fried Tofu on a platter with a side of rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spicy Fried Tofu with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Serve with a glass of iced tea or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Spicy Fried Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Fried Tofu contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Fried Tofu contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Fried Tofu contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Fried Tofu contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Fried Tofu is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy as the main allergen.

Summary

Spicy Fried Tofu is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for a vegetarian meal. It is high in protein and fats, making it a satisfying and filling option.

Summary

Spicy Fried Tofu is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a vegetarian meal. The combination of spices and seasonings creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this dish with your favorite toppings and accompaniments for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Spicy Fried Tofu. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in China. My family didn't have much money, so we often had to make do with whatever ingredients we had on hand. Tofu was a staple in our household, as it was cheap and easy to come by.

One day, my mother invited a new neighbor over for dinner. She was a young woman from Japan, and she brought with her a dish that I had never seen before - Spicy Fried Tofu. The moment I took my first bite, I was hooked. The combination of crispy tofu and spicy sauce was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I begged the neighbor to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed.

She showed me how to marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Then she coated it in cornstarch and fried it until it was golden brown and crispy. Finally, she tossed it in a spicy sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and more chili flakes. The result was a dish that was bursting with flavor and had just the right amount of heat.

I practiced making Spicy Fried Tofu every chance I got, and soon it became a favorite in our household. My family and friends would always ask me to make it for special occasions, and I was always happy to oblige. Over the years, I have made some changes to the recipe to suit my own tastes. I like to add a bit of sesame oil for extra flavor, and I sometimes top it with chopped scallions for a pop of freshness.

As I grew older, I moved to the United States and brought the recipe for Spicy Fried Tofu with me. I continued to make it for my friends and coworkers, who were always amazed at how such a simple dish could be so delicious. They would often ask me where I learned to make it, and I would always tell them the story of the kind neighbor who had introduced me to it all those years ago.

Now, as a grandmother, I take great pleasure in teaching my grandchildren how to make Spicy Fried Tofu. They are always eager to help me in the kitchen, and I love passing down this recipe to the next generation. I hope that they will continue to make it for their own families and friends, and that it will become a cherished tradition in our family for years to come.

I am grateful for the neighbor who introduced me to Spicy Fried Tofu all those years ago. Her kindness and generosity have left a lasting impact on me, and I will always be thankful for the gift of this delicious recipe. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, no matter where they come from or what language they speak. And for that, I am truly grateful.