Crispy tofu is a simple yet irresistibly satisfying dish — golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and silky on the inside. It’s quick to make, nutritious, and perfect for both vegetarians and anyone looking for a lighter meal. You can enjoy it as an appetizer with dipping sauce or serve it with steamed rice and vegetables like broccoli or bok choy for a wholesome main course. Best of all, it only takes about 15–20 minutes from start to finish.
Ingedients
16 oz (450 g) firm tofu
1 cup Korean crispy frying mix (or tempura flour)
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 egg, lightly beaten
Cooking oil, for frying
Seasoning:
1 tsp seasoning powder or vegetable bouillon
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp soy sauce
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp Korean chili powder (or paprika, for mild heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the tofu
Rinse the tofu with warm salted water and pat dry.
Cut into bite-sized cubes.
In a bowl, mix the tofu with the seasoning ingredients. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes.
Lightly coat the tofu pieces with cornstarch so they don’t stick together.
Step 2: Coat the tofu
Beat the egg with a pinch of pepper.
Dip the seasoned tofu pieces into the egg mixture.
Roll each piece in the Korean crispy frying mix (or tempura flour) until evenly coated.
Step 3: Fry the tofu
Heat oil in a frying pan — enough to cover the tofu halfway.
When the oil reaches medium heat, gently drop the tofu pieces in.
Fry both sides until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy tofu hot with your favorite dipping sauce. It pairs beautifully with rice, noodle bowls, or even in lettuce wraps.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Classic Soy-Garlic Sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
½ tbsp sugar or honey
1 minced garlic clove
Optional: sliced chili or sesame seeds
Spicy Mayo Dip
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
A few drops of lime juice
Sweet Chili-Lime Sauce
2 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tsp lime juice
A few cilantro leaves for garnish
Ginger-Sesame Dipping Sauce (for a more Asian touch)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp grated fresh ginger
½ tsp sugar
Optional: chopped scallions
Tip: For an even crispier texture, double-fry the tofu — fry once until light golden, rest for 2–3 minutes, then fry again for 1 minute until deep golden brown.
