Crispy Tofu With Cilantro Tahini Dip

⏱ 15 mins 🍽 4 serving(s) 🏷 Soy/Tofu

This is a revived favourite from my vegetarian cooking, proving to be a reliable appetiser. Using firm tofu, rather than silken, yields a better result as it holds its shape during cooking. The cubes are coated and fried until crisp, then paired with a vibrant dip blending tahini, fresh ginger, garlic, cilantro, and a hint of heat. It's a simple yet flavourful starter.

Crispy Tofu With Cilantro Tahini Dip

Ingredients

  • 1 lb firm tofu
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • peanut oil, for shallow-frying
  • 1/2 lemon, juice of
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaf
  • 1 dash hot pepper sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons water (as needed)
  • 1/2 cup peanut oil
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)

Method

  1. Slice the firm tofu into 1-inch cubes and pat them dry with a towel. Roll the cubes in the cornstarch to coat them evenly.
  2. Heat the peanut oil for shallow-frying. Cook the coated tofu cubes until they become brown and crispy, which should take roughly 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer them to a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain.
  3. Finely mince the fresh ginger. Place it into a blender or food processor along with the lemon juice, garlic cloves, tahini, cilantro leaves, hot pepper sauce, sesame oil, and water. Blend the ingredients together. Taste the mixture, then you may add the optional brown sugar if desired. While the motor is still running, slowly pour in the 1/2 cup of peanut oil to emulsify the dip.
  4. Transfer the prepared dip into a small serving bowl. Arrange the crispy tofu cubes alongside and offer toothpicks for easy and tidy dipping.

Nutrition (per serving)

Sodium23700 mg

Recipe details

CategorySoy/Tofu
Authorfluffernutter