Go Back
+ servings
Crispy Szechuan Tofu

Crispy Szechuan Tofu: Your New Favorite Vegan Comfort Food

Crispy Szechuan Tofu combines sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors for a memorable vegan dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block firm tofu Press for best texture.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch For coating and crispiness.
  • 1/4 cup sunflower oil Any neutral oil can work.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup red pepper Can substitute with bell peppers.
  • 2 tablespoons scallions For garnish.
For the Szechuan Sauce
  • 1/4 cup tamari Use for gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup For sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar Apple cider vinegar can substitute.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced; fresh is best.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground dried ginger Fresh ginger can also be used.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chinese 5 spice Can substitute with spices listed.

Equipment

  • non-stick sauté pan
  • baking sheet
  • heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet)
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Wrap firm tofu in paper towels and press for 30 minutes using a heavy object.
  2. Combine tamari, chili flakes, black pepper, maple syrup, Sriracha, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and Chinese 5 spice to make the sauce.
  3. Unwrap tofu, pat dry, cut into cubes, and coat with cornstarch.
  4. Heat oil in a non-stick pan and fry tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Sauté chopped red pepper until tender, then add the crispy tofu and Szechuan sauce, stirring to combine.
  6. Serve and garnish with chopped scallions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure tofu is adequately pressed for best results. Adjust spice levels to your preference. Store leftovers properly in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!