Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as delicious as it is easy to make? Say hello to **Crispy Chilli Peanut Tofu**! This Asian-inspired delight combines the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked tofu with the bold flavors of chili and the irresistible crunch of roasted peanuts. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a meal that not only impresses your taste buds but also makes for a stunning centerpiece on your dinner table. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that’s both healthy and oh-so-satisfying!
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu, cubed
- 1/2 cup peanuts
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the cubed tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top, such as a cast iron skillet, for about 15 minutes.
- While the tofu is being pressed, prepare the peanuts. If using raw peanuts, roast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. If using roasted peanuts, set them aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, chili sauce, and cornstarch. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, creating a marinade for the tofu.
- Once the tofu has been pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss the tofu to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook the tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip the tofu to avoid breaking the cubes.
- Once the tofu is crispy, add the roasted peanuts to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the peanuts to warm through and combine with the tofu.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the crispy chili peanut tofu to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
- Serve the crispy chili peanut tofu hot, either on its own or with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips
- Pressing the Tofu: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. If you have time, press the tofu for longer than 15 minutes for even better results.
- Choosing Peanuts: If you prefer a deeper flavor, opt for raw peanuts and roast them yourself. Keep an eye on them while roasting, as they can burn quickly.
- Marinating Time: Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors. If you can, let it marinate longer for an even richer taste.
- Cooking in Batches: To achieve maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying the tofu. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets that golden brown finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your crispy chili peanut tofu over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, and consider adding a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnishing: Fresh green onions not only add a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Don’t skip this final touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
