Are you a fan of tofu? If not, this recipe for perfect pan fried tofu will change your mind. It's fast, easy, and doesn't require any pressing. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy irresistibly flavorful tofu with a golden-brown crust. This dish has become our go-to for quick and delicious plant-based dinners. Let's dive into the art of making perfect pan fried tofu!
What you need for this pan fried tofu
Tofu is a versatile plant-based protein that can be used in various cuisines. For this recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Firm or extra firm tofu: Soft or silken tofu won't work well in this recipe.
- Olive oil
- Toasted sesame oil: Make sure it's toasted for a nutty flavor.
- Smoked soy sauce or regular soy sauce: If you can find smoked shoyu, it adds an incredible smoky flavor to the dish.
No need to press the tofu!
Unlike many tofu recipes that call for pressing the tofu, this pan fried tofu recipe skips that step. It's perfect for weeknight dinners when you don't have time to wait. Simply dry off the tofu with a towel, and you're ready to go. Score!
How to make pan fried tofu (basic steps)
This pan fried tofu recipe results in golden-brown pieces with crisp edges. Here are the basic steps:
- Cut the tofu into large cubes and dry them off with a towel.
- Cook one side of the tofu in cold oil over medium heat until golden brown.
- Flip the tofu using chopsticks or a spatula. Be careful of spitting oil.
- Cook the other side of the tofu for another 5 to 6 minutes.
- Season the tofu with toasted sesame oil and soy sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes on each side.
Chopsticks are the easiest tool for flipping the tofu
Enhance the flavor with smoked soy sauce
If you can find smoked soy sauce (shoyu), it adds a delightful smoky flavor to the dish. Smoked shoyu is becoming more widely available in mainstream grocery stores. The intense savory flavor is perfect for vegan recipes. Look for it in stores or order it online to enhance the flavor of your pan fried tofu.
Is tofu healthy?
Tofu is a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. According to the Harvard TH Chan School of Nutrition, soy is a nutrient-dense source of protein that can be consumed safely several times a week. It offers health benefits, especially as an alternative to red and processed meat. So, you can feel good about adding this pan fried tofu recipe to your weekly meal calendar.
How to serve pan fried tofu
Now comes the fun part - serving your pan fried tofu! Here are some serving suggestions:
- With soba noodles: Add our Quick Soba Noodles recipe for a delicious bowl of tofu and noodles.
- With rice: Serve the tofu with white rice or our Veggie Fried Rice.
- With a side of veggies: Pair the tofu with Roasted Broccoli or Simple Sauteed Broccoli.
- Top it off with a zingy sauce: Try Spicy Mayo or Best Yum Yum Sauce for some extra flavor.
- In a stir fry: Add the tofu to our Easy Stir Fry Vegetables for a complete meal.
This pan fried tofu recipe is...
Vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free. It's a versatile and delicious option for those following a variety of dietary preferences.
Remember, perfect pan fried tofu is just a few steps away. No pressing required, just a little bit of love and seasoning. Enjoy this tasty and nutritious plant-based dish as part of your weekly meal rotation. Happy cooking!
More tofu recipes
If you're a tofu fan, here are some more delicious tofu recipes you might enjoy:
- Easy Tofu Scramble: A plant-based alternative to scrambled eggs.
- Crispy Baked Tofu: Versatile and crispy, perfect for salads or rice dishes.
- Coconut Tofu Curry: A flavorful and healthy dinner idea.
- Go-To Tofu Stir Fry: A tasty and easy stir fry for weeknight meals.
- Easy Marinated Tofu: A no-cook tofu recipe flavored with soy, sesame oil, and ginger.
- Tofu Ramen: A comforting and flavorful plant-based dinner option.
Enjoy exploring the world of tofu and discovering new ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your cooking repertoire!
