Crispy General Tso's Tofu

Crisp, lightly fried chunks of tofu are tossed in a homemade sweet and spicy sauce. This method helps the tofu to get super crispy outside and tender, chewy on the inside. Serve over white rice if desired.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 457 Calories

Ingredients

• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts
• 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 2 each green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
• 1 (1/2 inch) piece fresh ginger, slightly crushed
• ½ (16 ounce) package extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Whisk broth, soy sauce, hoisin, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, ginger, vinegar, brown sugar, white pepper, and red pepper flakes together in a small bowl. Set sauce aside.

Step 2

Place remaining cornstarch in a resealable, zip-top plastic bag. Tear off bite-sized chunks of tofu and drop them into the bag. Shake until each piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle on cornstarch by hand, if needed, to coat each piece well.

Step 3

Heat oil in a wok or large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add tofu pieces one by one and cook until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to move and turn the pieces until browned on all sides, 10 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 4

Pour out any remaining oil. Add the white parts of the green onions and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the sauce. Allow to heat and thicken, about 2 minutes. Return the tofu to the wok and toss to coat. Discard ginger. Garnish with green onion tops, peanuts, and sesame seeds.