- Why do I need to press the tofu?
- Tofu is full of water. If you don't squeeze it out, the water turns to steam during frying, and the tofu cannot brown (Maillard reaction), only steam. Plus, the marinade can enter the space left by the water.
Spinach & Tofu Bites
Many people dislike tofu because they consider it a 'tasteless sponge'. Yet this is exactly its strength! If prepared properly (pressed), tofu absorbs marinade like a sponge. The cornflour coating ensures that crispy crust which contrasts with the soft interior. The freshness of spinach and lemon counterbalances the oiliness.
Ingredients
400
g
Tofu (firm or extra firm)
200
g
Fresh spinach leaves
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
2
tbsp
Olive oil or sesame oil (for frying)
1
tbsp
Lemon juice
2
tbsp
Soy sauce
1
tbsp
Cornflour
0.5
tsp
Salt
0.5
tsp
Ground pepper
0.5
tsp
Chilli flakes (optional)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Tofu press (or two chopping boards and a heavy book)
- Non-stick frying pan
Allergen Information
Soya
Instructions
1
✓
Wrap the tofu in kitchen paper and place a weight on it for 15-20 minutes to allow excess water to drain.
Tip: The drier the tofu, the crispier the result.
2
✓
Dice the tofu into 2 cm pieces. Toss in half of the soy sauce, then sprinkle with cornflour and shake to coat evenly.
Tip: When the cornflour meets moisture, it forms a thin, crispy shell during frying.
3
✓
Fry the tofu cubes in hot oil over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan! If the cubes touch, the temperature drops and they will steam.
4
✓
Sauté the garlic in the remaining oil (30 seconds), then throw in the spinach. Stir for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Tip: Spinach cell walls collapse from heat (wilting) and release water. This happens in moments, do not overcook!
5
✓
Drizzle with lemon juice and the remaining soy sauce, then toss the crispy tofu back in to warm through. Serve immediately.
Tip: The acid (lemon) helps prevent the spinach from browning and freshens the flavours.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 400 g Tofu (firm or extra firm)
- 200 g Fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil or sesame oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Cornflour
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Ground pepper
- 0.5 tsp Chilli flakes (optional)