Puffed Tofu

5 from 29 votes

Discover the easiest way to make golden crispy Puffed Tofu at home. With just a couple of ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to follow - perfect for those last-minute cravings. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience that's both budget-friendly and effortlessly delicious!

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Vegan

Servings: servings

Calories: 294kcal

Author: Jacqui Wormington

Cost: $1.25

Equipment

deep pot or pan
slotted spoon or ladle
thermometer
knife
cutting board
paper towels
grilling tongs turning tofu cubes while frying

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu or extra-firm tofu
oil for frying

Optional

cornstarch for coating the tofu

US Customary - Metric

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Instructions

In a deep frying pot or pan, heat the oil to 350°F (which is 175°C).
While the oil is heating, drain the tofu, pat dry, and cut it into bite-sized cubes, roughly around 1 inch in size.
Optional - For a beautiful color and even shape, you can roll the tofu cubes in cornstarch.
Carefully add the tofu to the hot oil using a slotted spoon or ladle, being cautious of potential splatters. Fry the puffed tofu until it turns golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to check the oil temperature regularly, adjusting the heat to keep it between 320°F and 375°F.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the puffed tofu from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow the puffed tofu to cool slightly before incorporating it into soups, stews, or other delightful dishes.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Air Fryer: Use an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior without submerging the tofu in oil. Simply coat the tofu cubes with a light layer of oil or cooking spray, then air fry them at 400°F (205°C) until they become crispy and golden brown (around 6 - 10 minutes).
Baking: Baking is a healthier alternative to frying. Place the prepared tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lightly brush or spray them with oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) until they are golden and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
Oil-Free Option: For a completely oil-free approach, you can bake or air fry the tofu cubes without any added oil. However, check on them regularly to prevent drying out or burning.

Notes

Storage: To store puffed tofu, let it cool at room temperature and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, consuming it within 2-3 days for the best quality. If you want to freeze it, allow the tofu to cool, freeze it in a single layer, and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, labeling and dating it. It can stay fresh in the freezer for about 2-3 months, and when ready to use, thaw it in the fridge before reheating as desired.

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