Pan-Fried Garlic Tofu
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
2 hrs
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
2 hrs 10 mins
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Servings
4 -6 servings
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Calories
150 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Pan-Fried Garlic Tofu
Description
This recipe starts by cutting extra-firm tofu into evenly sized triangular slices to ensure uniform cooking. The tofu is marinated for at least two hours or overnight in a sauce composed of minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, lemon juice, sliced green onion, and water. This marinade imparts a balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and aromatic ginger flavors to the tofu.
When cooking, the tofu is pan-fried in oil over high heat until the bottoms are nicely browned and crispy, then flipped to brown the other side. The marinade is added to the pan near the end, thickening slightly and coating the tofu pieces with intensified flavor. The searing process yields a firm yet tender texture with a flavorful crust that contrasts with the soft interior.
The dish is finished with additional sliced green onion for freshness. This tofu can be served as a main or side dish accompanied by rice or vegetables.
Pressing the tofu before marinating helps remove excess water and improves crispiness. Optionally dusting tofu with cornstarch before frying can create an even crisper crust. Searing without stirring preserves the tofu's shape and develops color.
Ingredients
- 14 to 16 ounces tofu extra-firm, drained
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 green onion thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
- lemon juice of 1 small
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoon ginger fresh, grated
- ¼ cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of oil
Instructions
- Cut tofu into ⅓ inch thick triangular slices, place in a large casserole dish, and set aside.
- To create the marinade, thoroughly mix together the rest of the ingredients (except the oil) in a medium bowl and pour over the tofu. Allow tofu to sit for a minimum of two hours, or overnight for a richer taste. Flip tofu halfway in-between.
- Once the tofu is marinated, place a large sauté pan over high heat. Add just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Add as many tofu slices as will fit in one layer. Cook until tofu is browned on the bottom, 2-3 minutes. Flip the pieces, and brown on the other side, about 2 minutes. Pour in the marinade mixture, and cook until tofu darkens slightly, about 45 seconds. Flip tofu and repeat.
- Garnish with remaining thinly sliced green onion.
Notes
- Slice tofu evenly into triangles or rectangles to ensure uniform cooking times.
- Press tofu for 30 minutes before marinating to remove excess moisture and achieve a crisper texture.
- For a crispier crust, pat tofu dry after marinating and dust lightly with cornstarch before pan-frying.
- Use a hot pan with oil and avoid stirring frequently to develop a good sear on tofu pieces.
- Marinate tofu for at least two hours or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4-6 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 150 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 150kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 9g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Sodium | 568mg | 24% |
| Potassium | 201mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 0.3g | 1% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 1IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 42mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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