Crisp, crunchy, golden Breaded Tofu is a great dish for any occasion.
Serves 8
2 lb. firm or extra-firm tofu,
5 cups water
½ cup finely minced fresh ginger
¾ cup soy sauce
½ cup whole-wheat pastry or white flour
½ cup fine cornmeal
Vegetable oil for frying
For the batter:
½ lb. soft tofu
½ cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Fresh parsley to garnish
Cut tofu horizontally into ½ inch thick slices. In a large shallow pot, combine the water, ginger, and soy sauce over a low heat. Add the sliced tofu and simmer for 20 minutes. With a large spatula, remove the tofu. Gently squeeze out any excess liquid from the tofu. Set aside.
For the batter, liquidize soft tofu, water and soy sauce using a blender. Pour this batter onto a large flat plate. Place the whole-wheat flour in a second flat plate and cornmeal on a third. Dredge each slice of marinated tofu first in the whole-wheat flour, then in the batter, and finally in the cornmeal.
Heat oil in a large skillet until it is sizzling. Fry each piece of tofu until both sides are golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve this tofu dish with tartar sauce or any other pungent sauce to offset the taste of the tofu.