Description
Salt & Pepper Tofu is a popular Chinese-inspired dish featuring crispy tofu cubes seasoned with aromatic garlic, chilies, and a savory salt and pepper blend. It’s crunchy, spicy, and packed with flavor—perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch or potato starch
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp five-spice powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced (or use green chilies)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and five-spice powder if using.
- Toss the tofu cubes in the starch mixture until well coated.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Fry the tofu in batches until golden and crispy on all sides (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Remove excess oil from the pan, leaving about 1 tbsp. Sauté minced garlic, sliced chilies, and green onions for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss to coat evenly with aromatics. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or chili flakes if desired.
- Serve hot as an appetizer or over rice as a main dish.
Notes
- Use an air fryer or oven for a lighter version.
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables.
- For extra crunch, double-fry the tofu.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar for tang.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: salt and pepper tofu, crispy tofu, vegan Chinese recipes, Asian tofu dish, spicy tofu appetizer