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Tofu, also known as bean curd, is made from soybeans and is celebrated for its protein content and versatility in cooking. It comes in several varieties, primarily categorized into firm, soft, and silken types. Firm tofu is ideal for frying, baking, and grilling due to its dense texture, making it the perfect choice for our Crunchy Chili-Lime Tofu Cubes. Soft and silken tofu, on the other hand, are more suitable for smoothies, soups, and desserts.

Crunchy Chili-Lime Tofu Cubes

Discover the delicious world of plant-based cuisine with Crunchy Chili-Lime Tofu Cubes. This recipe features firm tofu that's pressed and marinated to absorb bold spices and zesty lime flavors, resulting in a crispy texture that's irresistible. Perfect for salads, rice bowls, or as a tasty snack, these tofu cubes are not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile. Elevate your meals with this satisfying dish that balances flavor and health effortlessly.
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Ingredients
  

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Zest and juice of 2 limes

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess water. You can do this by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a weight on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

    Coat the Tofu: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss the tofu cubes in the dry mixture until evenly coated. Ensure each cube is well coated for maximum crunch.

      Pan-Fry: Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels.

        Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime zest, lime juice, soy sauce, and maple syrup. Adjust sweetness and saltiness to your liking, if necessary.

          Combine & Serve: Drizzle the chili-lime sauce over the crispy tofu cubes and toss gently to coat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings