Crispy Salt Pepper Tofu (Printable Recipe)

Golden tofu with garlic pepper mix and just the right heat. A crispy favorite with crowd-pleasing flavor.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 3 tablespoons vegan chicken bouillon paste or powder
02 - 1 block extra-firm tofu 16 ounces pressed and cut into 0.5 inch cubes
03 - 0.5 cup cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic salt
06 - 0.5 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
07 - 0.5 teaspoon white pepper
08 - 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
09 - 1 small yellow onion thinly sliced
10 - 5 green onions white and light green parts cut into 0.5 inch pieces dark green parts thinly sliced
11 - 6 cloves garlic minced
12 - 2 Thai chilies thinly sliced optional

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Remove tofu from packaging and press for at least 30 minutes to eliminate moisture then cut into 0.5 inch cubes.
02 - Boil 2 quarts water and stir in bouillon paste. Reduce heat and gently simmer tofu for 5 minutes covered then uncover and simmer 2 to 3 minutes more. Drain and let cool.
03 - Mix cornstarch and kosher salt in a bowl. In another bowl combine garlic salt black pepper and white pepper. Toss tofu in cornstarch mix to coat evenly. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry tofu in batches for 5 to 8 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
04 - Remove all but 2 tablespoons oil from wok. Stir-fry sliced onion green onion whites garlic and Thai chilies over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
05 - Add fried tofu to the wok and toss with garlic salt and pepper blend. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until coated. Garnish with dark green onion tops and serve hot.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Pressing tofu is key for removing moisture which improves crispiness.
02 - Ensure oil is hot before frying to prevent greasy tofu.
03 - Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain even browning.
04 - Spice level can be adjusted by modifying or omitting Thai chilies.
05 - For best texture serve immediately after cooking.
06 - Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3 days and can be reheated in an oven or air fryer at 375°F.

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