Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 […]
Ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons loose jasmine tea leaves
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Infusing the tofu with jasmine tea flavor
Start by draining the tofu and pressing it between two plates with a weight on top to remove excess moisture. While the tofu is being pressed, prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger. Mix well until the honey is fully dissolved.
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes or rectangles, depending on your preference. Place the tofu in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Sprinkle the loose jasmine tea leaves on top of the tofu and gently press them into the surface to ensure they stick.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the jasmine tea and marinade.
Step 2: Coating the tofu bites
In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings. Take each marinated tofu cube and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres to the tofu.
Place the coated tofu bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 3: Frying the tofu bites
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the tofu bites. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.
Carefully place the coated tofu bites into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried tofu bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serving and enjoying
Once all the tofu bites are fried, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Arrange the crispy jasmine tea-infused tofu bites on a platter and garnish with some fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
These tofu bites make for a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a flavorful treat on your own. They offer a unique twist to traditional tofu dishes, infusing them with the delicate aroma and taste of jasmine tea.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
The advantages of these jasmine tea-infused tofu bites are plentiful. Firstly, tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake. Additionally, the use of jasmine tea adds a subtle floral note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Furthermore, these tofu bites are coated in panko breadcrumbs, which provide a satisfying crunch without the heaviness of traditional deep-fried coatings. This makes them a healthier alternative to other fried snacks.
However, it’s important to note that frying the tofu bites does add some extra calories and fat. To mitigate this, you can opt for shallow frying or baking the coated tofu bites instead. This will result in a slightly different texture but still deliver a delicious and healthier alternative.
Who is this recipe intended for?
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore new flavors and incorporate more plant-based protein into their diet. It appeals to those who enjoy Asian-inspired cuisine and appreciate the delicate taste of jasmine tea. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a unique snack, these jasmine tea-infused tofu bites are sure to impress.
