Spicy Sichuan Tofu Bites

Instructions

1. 1

   Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

   ~5 min
2. 2

   In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.

   ~2 min
3. 3

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

   ~15 min
4. 4

   While the tofu is frying, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together doubanjiang, chili flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.

   ~3 min
5. 5

   Finely mince the garlic and ginger. Toast Sichuan peppercorns in a dry small pan until fragrant, then grind them into a powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

   ~5 min
6. 6

   Wipe the frying pan clean. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

   ~2 min
7. 7

   Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and stir well. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute until slightly thickened.

   ~1 min
8. 8

   Add the fried tofu cubes back into the pan and gently toss to coat them evenly with the sauce. Stir in the ground Sichuan peppercorns.

   ~2 min
9. 9

   Finely chop the green onions. Garnish the tofu bites with chopped green onions before serving.

   ~1 min