Chinese · serves 2

Salt and Pepper Tofu

Crisp, peppery, twenty minutes. Better than most restaurant versions.

25 min Some work Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 400g firm tofu, cubed
  • 1/2 cup cornflour
  • 1 tbsp rice flour
  • 1 tbsp black pepper, coarsely crushed
  • 1 tsp five spice (optional)
  • 1 capsicum, 1 onion, in squares
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 3 green chillies
  • Spring onion
  • Oil

Method

  1. Press the tofu dry for 15 minutes, then cube it. Wet tofu spits and never crisps.
  2. Toss in cornflour, rice flour, salt and half the pepper.
  3. Fry in hot oil till golden on all sides. Drain on a rack, not paper.
  4. Separate pan, 1 tbsp oil: garlic, chillies, onion and capsicum on high for 2 minutes.
  5. Tofu back in with the rest of the pepper and more salt, tossed for 30 seconds.
  6. Spring onion. Serve immediately.

Questions people ask about Salt and Pepper Tofu

How long does Salt and Pepper Tofu take?

About 25 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is a bit of work. Most of that is active, so read the method through before you start rather than chopping as you go.

What is the one thing to get right in Salt and Pepper Tofu?

Press the tofu dry for 15 minutes, then cube it. Wet tofu spits and never crisps.

What can I use instead of tofu in Salt and Pepper Tofu?

Use paneer, cubed the same size. It browns faster, so drop the heat slightly.

Can I make Salt and Pepper Tofu ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Salt and Pepper Tofu vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

What do you serve with Salt and Pepper Tofu?

Serve immediately. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

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