Thai Basil Tofu (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Crispy Tofu
01 -
16 oz extra firm protein-rich tofu block
02 -
¼ tsp sea salt
03 -
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
04 -
2 tbsp corn starch powder
→ Spicy Basil Mix
05 -
2 tbsp cooking oil of your choice
06 -
6 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
07 -
4 spicy red Thai chilies (more or less to taste)
08 -
⅓ cup diced red onions or sliced shallots
09 -
1½ cup Thai basil leaves, fresh
10 -
2 tbsp regular soy sauce
11 -
1 tbsp rich dark soy sauce
12 -
2 tbsp veggie oyster sauce
13 -
1 tbsp unrefined cane sugar or traditional palm sugar
14 -
2 tbsp plain water
# Instructions:
01 -
Squeeze out water from tofu and use paper towels to dry completely. Break into chunks by hand, keeping some texture without making it too mushy.
02 -
Sprinkle salt, pepper and corn starch over the tofu chunks, making sure they're all coated evenly.
03 -
Spread coated tofu on an oiled baking tray and mist with cooking spray. Cook at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes, stirring now and then for even golden color. Put aside when done.
04 -
Don't want to bake? Just fry your seasoned tofu in a greased skillet until all moisture's gone and pieces turn golden and firm. Set aside when done.
05 -
Warm up oil in your wok on medium flame. Toss in chopped chilies, garlic and onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes until they smell good but don't let them brown.
06 -
Throw your ready tofu into the wok with the flavor mix. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes on medium heat.
07 -
Mix all sauces and sugar in a small cup. Pour this over your tofu mix. Add 2 tablespoons water to the empty cup to catch leftover sauce and add that too. Stir everything well.
08 -
Let the sauce bubble for about a minute, then drop in your Thai basil leaves (whole or cut, whatever you like). Stir and cook 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts down.
09 -
Scoop onto plates with hot rice underneath. For the full Thai experience, top with a fried egg if you want. Eat right away while it's hot.
# Notes:
01 -
True Thai cooking uses holy basil, but regular Thai sweet basil works fine if that's all you can find.
02 -
Want the real deal taste? Smash your garlic and chilies with a mortar and pestle instead of chopping them.