Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsJong's Thai KitchenFried Tofu Recipe

Fried Tofu Recipe

Time40m
Serves4

Make Fried Tofu Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Main Ingredients

Dipping Sauce (Optional)

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Tofu

    Drain the firm tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy object on top (like a skillet) to press out excess moisture for about 20 minutes.

  2. 2

    Cut the Tofu

    Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-2 inches in size.

Coating the Tofu

  1. 3

    Mix the Coating

    In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well until all dry ingredients are evenly combined.

  2. 4

    Coat the Tofu

    Add the tofu cubes to the bowl with the cornstarch mixture. Toss gently until all tofu pieces are evenly coated.

Frying

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

    In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  2. 6

    Fry the Tofu

    Carefully add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

  3. 7

    Drain the Tofu

    Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Making the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

  1. 8

    Mix the Sauce

    In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes to taste. Adjust seasoning as desired.

More from Jong's Thai Kitchen