This salt and pepper tofu recipe is a delightful way to enjoy tofu with a crispy exterior and a flavorful interior. It's a simple yet delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. The combination of garlic and green onion adds a burst of flavor that complements the crispy tofu perfectly.
If you don't usually cook with tofu, you might need to visit the refrigerated section of your supermarket to find it. Make sure to get firm tofu for this recipe. Cornstarch is another key ingredient that helps achieve the crispy texture, and you can find it in the baking aisle. Fresh garlic and green onion are typically available in the produce section.

Ingredients for Salt and Pepper Tofu Recipe
Tofu: Firm tofu is ideal for this recipe as it holds its shape well during frying.
Cornstarch: This helps to create a crispy coating on the tofu.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the tofu.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying the tofu to achieve a golden and crispy texture.
Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Green onion: Provides a fresh, slightly sharp taste that complements the tofu.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When frying the tofu, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cubes. To test, drop a small piece of tofu into the pan; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. This helps achieve a crispy texture without the tofu absorbing too much oil.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a good alternative to tofu.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder has similar thickening properties and can provide a crispy coating when frying.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with umami, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder, making it a good alternative.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a high smoke point and adds a subtle flavor that complements the dish.
minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a similar flavor and is convenient to use if fresh garlic is not available.
chopped green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish or mixed into the dish.
Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain its texture and prevents condensation from making it soggy.
- Transfer the cooled tofu into an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a sheet of parchment paper between them to avoid sticking.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to regain some of the crispiness.
- For freezing, place the cooled tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the tofu cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, bake the frozen tofu in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat in a pan with a little vegetable oil over medium heat.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray or brush the tofu with a bit of vegetable oil to help it crisp up.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is heated through and crispy.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan.
- Add the leftover tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and crispy.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is hot and crispy.
Microwave Method:
- Place the leftover tofu on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out.
- Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through, until the tofu is heated through. Note: This method may not retain the crispiness of the tofu.
Best Tools for Making This Recipe
Knife: To cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the tofu and chop the green onion.
Mixing bowl: To combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper, and to toss the tofu cubes.
Frying pan: To heat the vegetable oil and fry the tofu cubes.
Spatula: To turn the tofu cubes and stir-fry the garlic and green onion.
Garlic press: To mince the garlic cloves.
Measuring spoons: To measure the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
Tongs: To handle the tofu cubes while frying.
Paper towels: To drain the tofu after pressing and to absorb excess oil after frying.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Drain and press the tofu ahead of time to remove excess moisture, making it ready for quick cooking.
Use a non-stick pan: A non-stick pan ensures the tofu doesn't stick, reducing the need for extra oil and making cleanup easier.
Pre-mince garlic: Mince the garlic beforehand and store it in the fridge to save time during cooking.
Uniform tofu cubes: Cut the tofu into uniform cubes for even cooking and a consistent texture.
Batch cooking: Fry the tofu in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring each piece gets crispy.

Salt and Pepper Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 400 g Firm Tofu drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoon Vegetable Oil for frying
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 unit Green Onion chopped
Instructions
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the tofu cubes until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped green onion to the pan, and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Recipe
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