Tofu Karaage With Lemon
Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with citrusy notes – Tofu Karaage With Lemon is a delightful Japanese-inspired dish that will add a refreshing twist to your dining table. This recipe offers a unique take on the traditional karaage by using tofu as the star ingredient. It’s a perfect dish for those looking for a meatless alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor and texture. The combination of crispy fried tofu paired with tangy lemon sauce creates a harmonious balance of taste that is both satisfying and light. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe and bring a taste of Japan to your home.
**Tofu Karaage With Lemon**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 block of firm tofu
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the block of tofu on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, cover it with another towel, and place a heavy object on top. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
2. While the tofu is draining, prepare the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sake, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
3. Once the tofu has been pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes or rectangles, whichever shape you prefer.
4. Place the tofu pieces in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Gently toss to ensure all the tofu is coated in the flavorful mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat for frying.
6. Place the cornstarch in a separate shallow dish. Dredge each marinated tofu piece in the cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated.
7. Carefully place the coated tofu into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the tofu until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
8. Once the tofu cubes are fried to perfection, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with salt and pepper while still hot.
9. Garnish the Tofu Karaage with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Serve the crispy Tofu Karaage hot with a side of lemon wedges for squeezing. The citrusy kick from the lemon perfectly complements the savory tofu, giving it a zesty finish.
Enjoy this Tofu Karaage With Lemon as a delicious appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course accompanied by steamed rice and a side of sautéed vegetables. This recipe is a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based options into your meals without compromising on taste and satisfaction. Try it out for a flavorful and crunchy experience that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Japan!