Tempura is a popular Japanese dish that consists of battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables. One of the lesser-known variations of tempura is tofu tempura, a vegetarian-friendly option that is just as delicious. In this article, we will teach you how to make crispy tempura tofu at home, so you can enjoy this Japanese classic whenever you crave it.
Ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of ice-cold water
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Start by pressing the block of tofu to remove excess water. Place the tofu between two paper towels and place a heavy object on top. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- While the tofu is pressing, prepare the tempura batter. In a bowl, mix the flour, ice-cold water, and baking powder until just combined. It’s okay if there are lumps in the batter, as overmixing can make the tempura tough.
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles, whichever shape you prefer.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- Dip the tofu pieces into the tempura batter, making sure they are completely coated.
- Carefully place the battered tofu into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once the tofu is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Season the crispy tempura tofu with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the crispy tempura tofu hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or tempura dipping sauce.
Enjoy the crunchy exterior and tender interior of this delicious Japanese classic!