Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu

Introduction

Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu is a superbly crunchy and flavorful dish that transforms mild tofu into a show-stopping centerpiece. With a perfect balance of heat from black pepper and a punch of salt, this dish is both deeply satisfying and light. The crisp golden crust paired with tender tofu inside will win over both vegetarians and carnivores alike.

This recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or as an irresistible side dish—delivering maximum crunch with minimal fuss and oil.

What Makes Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu Irresistible

Unlike typical fried tofu, this recipe uses a light coating that turns crisply golden while locking in the tofu’s moisture. The highlight is the aromatic spice mix—fragrant, peppery, and salty without being overwhelming—making each bite vibrant and addicting. It’s a versatile dish; pile it onto rice, toss it with sautéed veggies, or serve as a crowd-pleasing finger food.

Choosing and Prepping Your Tofu

For the best texture, use extra-firm tofu and press out as much moisture as possible before cooking. This ensures maximum crispiness. If you want perfectly even cubes, reach for a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper—it makes prepping tofu and vegetables a breeze, giving your dish a professional look without the fuss.

After cutting, gently pat the tofu cubes dry with a paper towel to get them as moisture-free as possible before coating.

Crisping Tofu: Pan Fry, Oven, or Air Fry

For the ultimate crispy exterior, you have several options:

• Pan Fry: A SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch makes it easy to achieve an even sear with a minimal amount of oil, and the release is flawless.
• Oven: Line your sheet with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll so the tofu won’t stick and cleanup is effortless.
• Air Fryer: Modern air fryers like the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey deliver a golden, crunchy finish with very little oil in record time—ideal for healthy, hands-off cooking.

Finishing Touches: The Salt and Pepper Magic

A key to restaurant-worthy Salt and Pepper Tofu is sautéing fresh aromatics—think garlic, chilies, and green onions—then tossing the hot, crunchy tofu in the sizzling mixture. This quick toss infuses every piece with flavor and fragrance, elevating the finished dish above your average tofu snack.

Serving Inspirations

Serve Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu as:

• A savory appetizer with sweet chili or soy dipping sauce.
• A protein-packed main over steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried greens.
• A vibrant topping for salads—especially easy to pack in a Bentgo Salad Container for lunch on the go.

Squeeze fresh lime or toss with extra sliced scallions for a punchy finish.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields 4 appetizer portions or 2 generous main servings. Each serving (as an appetizer) contains roughly 180–210 calories, with high-quality plant protein and very little saturated fat—especially when air fried or baked.

Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu (Recap)

Crispy Salt and Pepper Tofu offers incredible crunch, bold flavor, and limitless serving options—making it a reliable favorite for healthy, exciting eating. Whether you pan-fry, bake, or air fry, it’s a recipe that’s as simple as it is impressive.

Instructions

1. Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to expel excess moisture. Cut tofu into 3/4-inch cubes. For perfect, even cubes, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper.
2. In a large bowl or bag, toss tofu cubes gently with cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and Chinese five spice if using, until each piece is evenly coated.
3. If air frying: Place coated tofu in a single layer in the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt. Spray or drizzle lightly with oil. Cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and golden.
4. If pan frying: Heat 2-3 tbsp oil in the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu in batches; cook 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and golden all around. Drain briefly on a plate lined with a paper towel.
5. If baking: Arrange tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. Spray or drizzle with oil and bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. In a clean pan over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté garlic, chili, and half the sliced green onions until fragrant (about 1 minute). Quickly add the crispy tofu, tossing to coat in the aromatic oil, about 1 minute total. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with remaining green onions and lime wedges. Enjoy immediately for best crispiness.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes