Fried Tofu
Crisp, golden cubes with a tender center, fried until the edges crackle.
Dietary
Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Wheat free, Dairy free, Nut free, Halal, Kosher
Allergens
Soy
Extra-firm tofu is pressed, cornstarch-coated, and shallow-fried until deeply golden and crisp outside while staying custardy within. Serve it over rice, tossed in a sauce, or on its own with a dipping sauce for a quick appetizer or protein-packed side.
Ingredients
- 2 blocks extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, for serving
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
Method
-
Wrap the pressed tofu blocks in paper towels and set a heavy pan on top for 15 minutes to squeeze out excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
-
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
-
Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture, pressing gently so each piece is evenly coated on all sides.
-
Heat the vegetable oil in a 9-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 350°F.
-
Fry the tofu in a single layer, in batches if needed, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes per batch.
-
Transfer the fried tofu to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
-
Garnish with sliced green onion and serve warm with soy sauce for dipping.
Rate this recipe

Fried Tofu
Extra-firm tofu is pressed, cornstarch-coated, and shallow-fried until deeply golden and crisp outside while staying custardy within. Serve it over rice, tossed in a sauce, or on its own with a dipping sauce for a quick appetizer or protein-packed side.
45 min 4 servings 245 cal
Ingredients
- 2 blocks extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, for serving
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish

Method
- 1
Wrap the pressed tofu blocks in paper towels and set a heavy pan on top for 15 minutes to squeeze out excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 2
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- 3
Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture, pressing gently so each piece is evenly coated on all sides.
- 4
Heat the vegetable oil in a 9-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 350°F.
- 5
Fry the tofu in a single layer, in batches if needed, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes per batch.
- 6
Transfer the fried tofu to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- 7
Garnish with sliced green onion and serve warm with soy sauce for dipping.