Chili Crisp Fried Tofu is a tasty dish that transforms ordinary tofu into a crispy, flavor-packed meal. First, press and cut the extra-firm tofu, then coat it in cornstarch for an extra crunch. Fry those cubes until golden brown, and toss them in a spicy chili crisp sauce made with soy sauce and a touch of honey or agave. It's perfect over rice, in salads, or tucked into tortillas. Stick around to explore the rich history and simple recipe!
History

Chili crisp, a beloved condiment that hails from Sichuan Province, China, has a rich history rooted in traditional Chinese cooking. For centuries, cooks have crafted oils infused with spices and flavors to elevate their dishes.
Chili crisp combines crispy garlic, onions, and chili peppers in oil, creating a delightful balance of crunch and umami. Its versatility shines through as it enhances a variety of foods, from noodles to roasted vegetables and meats.
Different brands and homemade versions present distinct spice levels and textures, catering to diverse palates. The emergence of chili crisp has gained momentum beyond China, largely due to influential chefs and food bloggers showcasing its bold flavors, including innovative uses like in fried tofu, making it a must-have condiment for your kitchen.
Recipe

Ingredients:
- Extra-firm tofu
- Cornstarch
- Chili crisp
- Soy sauce
- Honey or agave syrup (optional)
- Chopped scallions (for garnish)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Rice or vegetables (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by pressing the extra-firm tofu to eliminate excess moisture, then tear it into bite-sized chunks.
Coat each piece with cornstarch evenly. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and fry the tofu pieces until they turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together your preferred chili crisp, soy sauce, and honey or agave syrup to create the sauce.
Once the tofu is crispy, toss it gently in the chili crisp sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions, cilantro, and sesame seeds alongside rice or vegetables.
Extra Tips:
When working with tofu, it's essential to press it adequately to achieve the best texture.
If you have time, let the tofu sit in the press for at least 30 minutes.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of chili crisp to find the flavor profile that suits your palate.
For an even more complex flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the sauce.
Finally, tossing the tofu in the sauce just before serving will keep it crispy, making it a standout dish at any table.
Cooking Steps

To get started, you'll want to press the tofu to remove excess moisture and then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
Next, coat the pieces with cornstarch for that perfect crispy texture.
Finally, fry the tofu until it's golden brown before tossing it in the chili crisp sauce for an added kick.
Step 1. Press Tofu to Remove Moisture

Pressing tofu is an essential step in achieving that perfect crispy texture. To do this, you can use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel, then place a heavy object on top for about 15-30 minutes.
If you're short on time, microwave the tofu for about 3 minutes to help release some moisture before pressing. This process removes excess moisture, allowing your tofu to fry or bake beautifully.
Once pressed, the tofu will be primed for cutting into bite-sized chunks, maximizing marinade absorption and enhancing flavor. Properly pressed tofu not only crisps up better but also soaks up all those delicious flavors from your marinades and sauces.
Enjoy your cooking!
Step 2. Cut Tofu Into Bite-Sized Cubes

Cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Start by selecting an extra-firm tofu block, as it holds its shape better when frying.
After pressing the tofu, slice it into thinner blocks, then cut those into ¾-inch cubes to guarantee ideal cooking. This size allows for even cooking and maximizes crispiness.
Once you've got your cubes, toss them in cornstarch to coat each piece evenly, which helps create a deliciously crispy exterior.
Spread the cubed tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet or in an air fryer basket, ensuring there's enough space for airflow. This way, you'll achieve perfectly crispy tofu every time!
Step 3. Coat Tofu With Cornstarch

Coating the tofu with cornstarch is an essential step for achieving that irresistible crunch.
Start by pressing your extra-firm tofu to remove any excess moisture, ensuring it fries up crispy. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes or tear it into bite-sized chunks. Tearing enhances the surface area, allowing for better coating and texture absorption.
Toss the tofu pieces in cornstarch until they're evenly coated, making sure the coating is applied just before frying to prevent sogginess. This cornstarch layer will create a delightful crunch when you fry the tofu.
Use hot oil for frying, and you'll soon have crispy, golden brown tofu ready to be enjoyed in your Chili Crisp Fried Tofu dish!
Step 4. Fry Tofu Until Golden Brown

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to create a shallow layer.
Once the oil's hot, carefully add the cornstarch-coated tofu pieces to the skillet. Fry the tofu until it's golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side.
Make sure to turn the pieces occasionally, ensuring all sides get that perfect crunch. You'll know they're ready when they've achieved a deep, appetizing color.
Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is vital for maintaining that delightful crispiness.
Now, your golden brown tofu is ready for the star of the show—the chili crisp sauce!
Step 5. Add Chili Crisp Sauce

Whisk together the chili crisp sauce ingredients in a bowl: 1 tablespoon of chili crisp, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey (or agave syrup), and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.
Make sure to taste the chili crisp first, as spice levels can vary.
Once you've got your sauce ready, take your crispy, golden cubed tofu and place it in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the chili crisp sauce over the tofu and toss to combine, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a pan if needed to warm it up.
For a fresh finish, garnish your dish with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Final Thoughts

While you might think that achieving a restaurant-quality dish at home is intimidating, Chili Crisp Fried Tofu proves otherwise.
This recipe transforms extra-firm tofu into crispy tofu perfection using a simple cornstarch coating and a hot oven or frying pan. The flavorful sauce made with chili crisp and soy sauce elevates the dish, giving it a spicy, umami-packed kick.
You can easily adapt this versatile dish to your preferences—serve it over rice, toss it in salads, or wrap it in a tortilla. Don't forget to garnish with fresh green onions for extra flavor.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, although the texture may soften. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Make Crispy Chili Tofu?
To make crispy tofu, start by removing excess moisture from extra-firm tofu. You can press it or pour boiling water over cubed tofu, letting it sit for 20 minutes before drying.
Tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces, then coat them evenly with cornstarch. Fry the coated pieces in hot oil until golden brown, or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy tofu!
Why Is My Fried Tofu Not Crispy?
You've done everything right, but your fried tofu still isn't crispy? It's frustrating, isn't it?
First, check if you pressed the tofu properly; excess moisture is a hidden enemy. Did you coat it in cornstarch? That's essential for a crunchy exterior!
Also, consider your frying temperature—too low won't yield that golden texture.
Finally, make sure you aren't overcrowding the pan, or you'll trap steam. Let it rest before serving, and watch the magic happen!
How to Get a Crispy Crust on Tofu?
To get a crispy crust on tofu, start with extra-firm tofu.
Press or boil it to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that desirable crunch. Coat the tofu in cornstarch before frying or baking; this creates a crunchy outer layer.
Bake or air fry at 400-425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
Finally, toss the crispy tofu in your favorite sauce right after cooking for added flavor without losing that crunch.
Is Chili Crisp Actually Crispy?
Yes, chili crisp is actually crispy!
You'll notice its crunch comes from fried garlic, shallots, and spices that are cooked until golden. Different brands can vary in texture, so some may offer more crunch than others.
If you scoop mostly the solid components and use less of the oil, you'll enhance that crispy experience.
Just remember, a little goes a long way to avoid a greasy feel in your dishes!