Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed (14 oz)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of onion powder
- 1 tsp of smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/4 tsp of black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cut the tofu block into small cubes, about 1 inch in size.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce and water.
4. Dip each tofu cube into the barbecue sauce mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture. Repeat until all the tofu cubes are coated.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
6. Fry the tofu cubes in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the barbecue fried tofu curd balls hot with additional barbecue sauce for dipping.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 20-25 tofu curd balls
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70 per serving
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Sugar: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
- Any other type of sauce can be used instead of barbecue sauce for a different flavor.
Variations:
- Add some chopped scallions or cilantro to the flour mixture for extra flavor.
- Use different spices or seasonings to customize the flavor of the tofu curd balls.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain and press the tofu well to remove excess water and achieve a crispy texture.
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature and avoid burning the tofu curd balls.
- Serve the tofu curd balls immediately after frying for the best texture.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover tofu curd balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the tofu curd balls, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tofu curd balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
- Garnish with some chopped scallions or cilantro for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve the barbecue fried tofu curd balls with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Baked beans
- Corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the tofu curd balls are not crispy enough, make sure the oil is hot enough and fry them for a bit longer.
- If the flour mixture is not sticking to the tofu cubes, make sure they are well coated with the barbecue sauce mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to handle the hot oil carefully and keep children and pets away from the frying area.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tofu curd balls and make sure they are cooked through.
Food history:
- Tofu is a traditional Asian food made from soybeans and has been consumed for thousands of years.
Flavor profiles:
- The barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the crispy tofu curd balls.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the barbecue fried tofu curd balls as an appetizer or a main dish.
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