Fried Tofu
Fried tofu served with a savory vegetable dashi broth, this dish combines crispy tofu with a flavorful soy-based sauce. Perfect for those seeking a comforting, light meal with umami richness, suitable for vegetarians and tofu lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and fry until golden brown. Set aside.
- In a pot, bring dashi broth to a boil.
- Add thinly sliced carrots, celery, and onion to the broth and cook until tender.
- Stir in soy sauce.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add to the broth to thicken it.
- Return the fried tofu to the broth and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, press the tofu before frying to remove excess moisture. You can substitute dashi broth with vegetable broth for a vegan option. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Adding a splash of sesame oil at the end can enhance the flavor. Pair it with a Ginger Dipping Sauce for extra zest.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried tofu hot in bowls, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad or a side of Yummy Fruit Salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried tofu and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the broth on the stove and add the tofu just until heated through. Avoid microwaving the tofu as it can become chewy and lose its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Tofu contains roughly 295 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use soft tofu instead of firm?
While you can use soft tofu, it may not hold its shape well during frying. Firm or medium tofu is recommended for a better texture. If using soft tofu, consider gently pan-frying or baking instead of deep-frying.
What can I use as a substitute for dashi broth?
If you don't have dashi on hand, vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegan version. You can also add a bit of soy sauce and a dash of miso to enhance the umami flavor, mimicking dashi's depth.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate sliced fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of chili paste into the broth while cooking the vegetables. You can also serve with a side of spicy sauce or drizzle some Sriracha over the finished dish for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).