The Old Tauhu Recipe has a way of instantly transporting me to my grandmother’s bustling kitchen, where the aroma of sizzling tofu would draw the whole family to the dining table. Growing up, this was one of those dishes that always made an appearance, simple, humble, but packed with soul. It’s more than just fried tofu; it’s a recipe rich in tradition, rooted in Malaysian and Chinese home cooking.
This dish fits beautifully into almost any meal plan. Whether you’re whipping up a light vegetarian lunch, assembling a bento box for the kids, or craving a protein-rich appetizer before dinner, tauhu, or tofu, as it’s more commonly known, can be your go-to. And this old-school preparation? It takes tofu to the next level. Golden and crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and paired with a zesty dipping sauce that brings everything to life.
The best part? This Old Tauhu Recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and even picky eaters. It’s a nostalgic dish that’s still totally relevant in modern kitchens.
Table of contents
Why This Old Tauhu Recipe Works So Well
You might be wondering: what makes this Old Tauhu Recipe stand out from all the other tofu dishes out there? The answer lies in both its simplicity and the way it celebrates tofu’s natural texture and flavor.
The classic version uses firm tofu, sliced thick and shallow-fried until golden. The slight crunch of the outer layer gives way to a creamy center that melts in your mouth—yes, tofu can melt in your mouth when cooked right! This contrasts beautifully with the bright dipping sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar (or sometimes a chili-laced sambal), enhancing the dish with umami and heat.
Another thing that makes this recipe so great is how customizable it is. Want a gluten-free version? Swap in tamari for soy sauce. Trying to keep things low-oil? You can bake or air-fry the tofu instead of pan-frying it. Need to boost protein? Add a filling of minced vegetables or tempeh inside the tofu cubes for an even heartier dish.
And if you’re looking for a dish to prepare ahead of time, this one’s a winner. You can marinate the tofu, prepare the sauce, and even fry the tofu ahead and reheat it before serving. It makes meal prep easy without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned tofu-lover or just dipping your toes into plant-based dishes, this Old Tauhu Recipe will quickly earn a spot in your rotation.
Recipe Card
Tauhu Recipe
Cuisine: IndonesianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes180
kcalThis tauhu recipe transforms simple tofu into crispy, golden bites using a unique touch of pectin for an irresistibly crunchy texture. Perfect for a snack or side dish!
Ingredients
1 block (300g) firm tofu, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon pectin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, and sliced red chili
- Sauce for Dipping
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
Directions
- Prepare Tofu: Press the tofu with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Coat the Tofu: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, pectin, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss tofu cubes in the mixture until fully coated.
- Heat Oil: In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Tofu: Carefully add the tofu cubes to the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and honey.
- Serve: Garnish the fried tofu with cilantro, sesame seeds, and sliced chili. Serve hot with the dipping sauce.
Notes
- Using pectin in the coating enhances the crunch while keeping the inside soft. However, you can skip it if unavailable.
- For an air-fryer version, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Use extra-firm tofu to prevent crumbling during frying.
Tips for perfect Tauhu Recipe
- Ensure tofu is thoroughly dried to achieve a crispy exterior. This is one of the golden rules. Use firm or extra-firm tofu, and press it for at least 20 minutes before cooking. Wrap it in a clean towel and place something heavy on top (like a skillet). This removes excess water, allowing the tofu to crisp beautifully when fried or baked.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Uniform pieces not only look better, but they cook evenly too. Aim for medium-sized cubes or slices that are around ½ inch thick, perfect for holding their shape while getting that satisfying crunch.
- Add a pinch of turmeric to the coating mix for a vibrant golden color.
- Double the sauce recipe if you love dipping!
- Try marinating the tofu in the sauce mixture for an hour before frying for extra flavor.
Variants of the Old Tauhu Recipe
1. Sweet and Sour Tauhu
For those who enjoy a balance of flavors, the sweet and sour variant is an exciting twist. After frying the tofu, toss it in a sauce made from a blend of vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar or honey. You can also add in some pineapple chunks for a fruity kick! This version pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or noodles. The tangy, sweet glaze will coat each crispy cube, creating a burst of flavor with every bite.
2. Spicy Chilli Tauhu
If you’re a fan of heat, this spicy version is sure to satisfy. After pan-frying the tofu, sauté garlic, ginger, and chopped chili in a separate pan. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of sesame oil, then simmer the mixture until it becomes thick and fragrant. Pour this sauce over the crispy tofu for an exciting kick. For extra texture and heat, garnish with sliced fresh chilies and chopped green onions. This variation is perfect for anyone who likes their food to have a little fire.
3. Crispy Old Tauhu in Peanut Sauce
The creamy, nutty goodness of peanut sauce elevates the tofu in this version. To make the sauce, blend peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of lime juice. You can also add a little honey for sweetness and chili flakes for a mild heat. Once the tofu is fried to golden perfection, drizzle the peanut sauce over the top, then garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The rich peanut flavor combined with the crispy tofu makes this variation a favorite in many Asian cuisines.
4. Old Tauhu with Veggies
This version is perfect for anyone looking for a more substantial meal or trying to sneak in some extra vegetables. After frying the tofu, toss it with sautéed veggies like bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli. Add a splash of soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil, then stir-fry everything together. The crispy tofu complements the tender vegetables perfectly, making it a well-rounded dish. You can even serve it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice to create a more hearty, filling meal.
FAQs
No, it’s best to use firm or extra-firm tofu. Silken tofu will fall apart during frying.
Yes, let the fried tofu cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Pectin adds an extra layer of crispiness, ensuring that the tofu stays crunchy for longer.
To get that irresistible crunch, the key is to press the tofu before cooking. Use a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 20-30 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, then coat it lightly in cornstarch or flour before frying. This extra step will create a crispy, golden exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.
Final Thoughts
The Old Tauhu Recipe is a fantastic, versatile dish that combines crispy, savory tofu with endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re sticking with the classic flavors or experimenting with sweet, spicy, or creamy variations, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s the perfect choice for anyone seeking a simple, yet flavorful meal that satisfies the whole family or works great as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Looking for more crispy, mouthwatering dishes? Try our Sourdough Focaccia Recipe, perfect for dipping into savory sauces or serving alongside your favorite appetizers!
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