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    Crispy Sesame Garlic Tofu fry | Restaurant-Style Pan-Fried Tofu

    January 28, 2026 By Vidya Srinivasan Leave a Comment

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    Crispy Sesame Garlic Tofu Fry | Restaurant-Style Pan-Fried Tofu

    bajji with step-by-step pictures and video recipe. Check out the Tofu fry recipe, and if you like the video, pls SUBSCRIBE to my channel.


    Crispy Sesame Garlic Tofu Fry is one of those quick, flavor‑packed dishes that turns simple tofu into a restaurant‑style appetizer or side dish. This recipe employs a unique boiling-then-frying method that yields tofu with an incredibly firm, bouncy texture—perfect for absorbing bold flavors like soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and Szechuan chutney. Whether you're new to cooking tofu or looking for a foolproof way to make it crispy without deep‑frying, this method delivers golden, aromatic tofu bites every time. Serve it as a snack, pair it with rice or noodles, or enjoy it as a protein-rich topping for your favorite bowls.

     Why boil tofu before frying?

    Boiling tofu firms it up, tightens its structure, and removes excess moisture. This makes the tofu bouncy, chewy, and perfect for crisping when pan‑fried. It’s a great alternative to pressing, especially when you want a quick method.

    Boiling tofu vs pressing tofu — which is better?

    Both methods work, but they create different textures:

    Method Texture Best For
    Boiling Tofu Firm, bouncy, slightly chewy Stir‑fries, pan‑frying, and saucy dishes
    Pressing Tofu Dense, dry, crispier exterior Deep‑frying, baking, grilling
     

    For this recipe, boiling tofu helps the corn flour coat better and gives a restaurant‑style bite.

     Can I use extra‑firm tofu instead of regular tofu?

    Yes. Extra‑firm tofu works beautifully and holds its shape even better during boiling and sauteeing.

    How do I keep tofu from breaking while cooking?

    Handle it gently after boiling, and make sure it’s completely dry before coating with corn flour. Dry tofu = crispier tofu.

    Is this recipe vegan?

    Yes, all ingredients used are naturally vegan.

    Can I make this tofu fry without Schezwan chutney?

    Absolutely. Replace it with chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or skip it for a milder flavor.

     What can I serve with Crispy Sesame Garlic Tofu Fry?

    It pairs well with:

    • Steamed rice
    • Fried rice
    • Noodles
    • Buddha bowls
    • As a starter with dipping sauce

    How do I store leftovers?

    Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer to bring back crispiness.

    Ingredients

    For boiling tofu

    Water

    400 g tofu

    Salt

    Garlic powder

    Pepper powder

    For tofu fry

    1½ tablespoon sesame oil

    2 tablespoon garlic

    Spring onion

    2 tablespoon corn flour

    2 tablespoon soy sauce

    1 tablespoon rice vinegar

    1 tablespoon Schezwan chutney

    Sugar

    Pepper powder

    1 tablespoon sesame seeds

    How to make Restaurant-Style Pan-Fried Tofu with step-by-step pictures

    • ️ Boil water and add salt, pepper powder, and garlic powder

    • ️ Add tofu and boil for 5 minutes

    •  Drain the water and dry the tofu completely

    • ️ Once cooled, add corn flour and mix well

    • ️ Heat the oil and sauté the garlic and spring onion

    • ️ Add tofu and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they change color

    • ️ Furthermore, add soy sauce, Schezwan chutney, rice vinegar, sugar, and pepper powder; mix well

    • ️ Add sesame seeds and spring onion

    • ️ Sauté for 2 minutes and switch off

    tofy fry

    sesame tofu
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    Ingredients

    For boiling tofu

    • Water
    • 400 g tofu
    • Salt
    • Garlic powder
    • Pepper powder

    For tofu fry

    • 1½ tablespoon sesame oil
    • 2 tablespoon garlic
    • Spring onion
    • 2 tablespoon corn flour
    • 2 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon Schezwan chutney
    • Sugar
    • Pepper powder
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

    Instructions

    • Boil water and add salt, pepper powder, and garlic powder
    • ️ Add tofu and boil for 5 minutes
    • Drain the water and dry the tofu completely
    • ️ Once cooled, add corn flour and mix well
    • ️ Heat the oil and sauté the garlic and spring onion
    • ️ Add tofu and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they change color
    • ️ Furthermore, add soy sauce, Schezwan chutney, rice vinegar, sugar, and pepper powder; mix well
    • ️ Add sesame seeds and spring onion
    • ️ Sauté for 2 minutes and switch off

    Video

    Subscribe to my YouTube channelCheck out Traditionally Modern Food!
    Tried this recipe?Mention @traditionallymodernfood or tag #traditionallymodernfood!

    « One pot Puliyodarai | Puli sadam
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