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Vegan Kung Pao Tofu

Vegan Kung Pao Tofu: Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistibly Flavorful

This Vegan Kung Pao Tofu features bold flavors and a crispy texture, perfect for satisfying your cravings with a delightful, healthy twist.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Extra Firm Tofu Press to remove excess moisture for better frying.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Chinese Black Vinegar or Rice Vinegar Use rice vinegar if black vinegar is unavailable.
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce Substitute with tamari for gluten-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Adjust based on your preferred sweetness.
  • 1-2 tablespoons Chili Garlic Sauce or Chili Oil Modify according to spice tolerance.
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine Use dry sherry if Shaoxing wine is unavailable.
For the Crispy Coating
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch or Potato Starch Coats the tofu for crispiness.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 tablespoon Grated or Minced Ginger Adds a fragrant, spicy element.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Complements ginger with aromatic flavors.
  • 5 pieces Dried Chiles (optional) Introduces additional heat if desired.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness, texture, and color.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Provides color and crunch; substitute with other veggies if desired.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1/2 cup Fried or Roasted Peanuts Gives a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.

Equipment

  • Non-stick Frying Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting board
  • sharp knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by draining the extra firm tofu, pressing it to remove excess moisture for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles. Set aside.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the black vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, chili garlic sauce, and water. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved, and stir in cornstarch, minced ginger, and garlic.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Coat each piece of tofu evenly in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
  4. Heat a non-stick frying pan over high heat and add 1/4 cup of neutral oil. Add the coated tofu and fry for about 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium-high and add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
  6. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in Shaoxing wine and Szechuan peppercorns. Sauté for another minute until the alcohol evaporates.
  7. Pour the prepared sauce into the pan, stirring to coat the veggies. Carefully add crispy tofu pieces, mixing gently until coated and heated through.
  8. Finally, sprinkle in the fried or roasted peanuts, mixing gently. Serve immediately over steamed rice and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure each piece of tofu is evenly coated with cornstarch for optimal crispiness.

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