30 minutes
Crispy tofu coated with sesame seeds, served with a fragrant dipping sauce made with cilantro, scallions, garlic, and Sichuan chili flakes.
Firm Tofu, drained
0 oz
Untoasted Sesame Seeds
cups
cups
teaspoons
Five-Spice Powder
teaspoons
White Pepper Powder
teaspoons
Fresh Cilantro, chopped
cups
Scallions, chopped
each
Garlic, minced
teaspoons
teaspoons
Neutral Oil, divided
cups
tablespoons
tablespoons
teaspoons
teaspoons
1. Prepare Tofu
Cut the block of firm tofu in half lengthwise, then slice it into 0.5-inch thick pieces.
2. Prepare Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the sesame seeds, cornstarch, fine sea salt, five-spice powder, and white pepper powder. Mix these ingredients well.
3. Coat Tofu
Take each tofu slice and coat it thoroughly in the sesame seed mixture. Press the mixture onto the tofu evenly.
4. Prepare Dipping Sauce Base
Place the chopped cilantro, scallions, minced garlic, and Sichuan chili flakes into a small heatproof bowl.
5. Fry Tofu
Heat 3 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large nonstick pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tofu slices. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the tofu slices to a serving platter.
6. Prepare Dipping Sauce
Heat the remaining tablespoon of neutral oil until hot, then pour it over the garlic-chili mixture in the heatproof bowl. Stir in the light soy sauce, water, sugar, and rice vinegar until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.
7. Serve
Serve the crispy tofu slices with the fragrant dipping sauce on the side.
Opt for extra-firm tofu for this recipe as it holds up better during frying. Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture for a crispier exterior.
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying and ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the tofu. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Achieve a balance of sweet, salty, sour, and umami flavors in your sauce. Use soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and fresh ginger and garlic for a zing that complements the tofu's crispiness.
Don't skip the marination step, as this is where the tofu absorbs flavor. For deeper penetration of flavors, slice your tofu before marinating and consider a longer marinate, up to a few hours in the fridge.
A final sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro adds visual appeal and an additional flavor dimension to your dish.
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