Description
Ginger Tofu is deeply savoury, a little spicy, and unmistakably fragrant. It comes together in under 30 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients: tofu, fresh ginger, garlic, and shallots. It’s weeknight-friendly and deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Serve it over steamed rice with whatever greens you have on hand, and dinner is done.
Ingredients
Scale
For the tofu
- 2 blocks firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes or rectangles
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (for pan-frying)
- Salt and black pepper
For the sauce & aromatics
- 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, julienned or grated
- 3-4 shallots, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red chilli, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegan oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2-3 stalks spring onions, cut into 2-3 cm pieces
Instructions
Prep the ingredients
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or thick rectangles, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Thinly slice the garlics and shallots.
- Either julienne or grate the gingers.
Air-fry the tofu
- Use a small brush to brush a thin layer of oil on top of the tofu pieces, and repeat when you switch side.
- Air-fry the tofu in a single layer, undisturbed, at 180°C (or 356°F) for 15 minutes on the first side, and 5 minutes on the other side until golden and crispy. Then remove and set aside.
Get the pan
- Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat and sauté the shallots for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the soy sauce, vegan oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir to combine, then return the tofu to the pan.
- Finally, add the red chilli, spring onions and toss everything together so the tofu is well coated in the sauce.
Garnish & Serve
- Serve immediately over steamed rice and greens of choice.
Notes
Extra ginger flavour: If you love ginger, grate it into the sauce instead of julienning, since it will give a more intense, less textured hit.
When adjusting the taste, try to aim for balance: soy sauce for saltiness, vegan oyster sauce for that rich umami depth, and a touch of sugar to round everything out.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Meal, Main Course
- Method: Stir frying
- Cuisine: Vietnamese