Sweet Garlic Soy Tofu Knots

Hey there, foodies! I’m excited to share a recipe that’s a little different from my usual meat dishes. This time, it’s all about these Sweet Garlic Soy Tofu Knots, and trust me, they’re just as tasty! A lot of people say that these tofu knots have a chicken-like texture, and while I didn’t think so, I can definitely say they’ve got the perfect bite. The sauce, though, is where the magic happens it’s so addictive, I swear you’ll want to drizzle it on everything (I personally love it on crispy chicken wings, but tofu’s a great start)!

Method 

Soaking the Tofu Knots

The first step in making these Sweet Garlic Soy Tofu Knots is to soak the tofu in hot water or vegetable stock. This process is crucial for softening the tofu and allowing it to absorb the flavors of the stock. Make sure to soak the tofu knots for at least 2 hours. This will ensure that the tofu becomes tender and easy to work with when you’re ready to coat and cook it.

Draining and Pressing the Tofu

After the tofu knots have soaked, it’s time to drain them and press out any excess moisture. Using a kitchen towel, gently press the tofu knots to absorb as much water as possible. This step is important because removing the excess liquid helps the tofu absorb the coating and sauce better, and it prevents it from becoming soggy during the cooking process.

Coating the Tofu Knots

Once the tofu is pressed, place it in a bowl and toss it with the coating ingredients. Start by adding the salt, white pepper powder, oil, garlic powder, and enough cornstarch to coat the tofu evenly. The cornstarch is key to getting that crispy, golden texture after the tofu is air-fried. Make sure that each tofu knot is well coated to ensure an even, crispy finish.

Air Frying the Tofu

Now it’s time to cook the tofu. Preheat your air fryer to 180ºC (356ºF). Lightly spray the tofu knots with oil, which will help them crisp up. Place the coated tofu knots in the air fryer basket, and cook them for about 10 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure the tofu cooks evenly on all sides. You should end up with crispy, golden tofu knots with a nice texture on the outside.

Preparing the Sauce

While the tofu is air frying, it’s time to prepare the sauce. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it until it becomes fragrant this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to the pan. Stir everything together, letting the sauce bubble up and thicken slightly.

Coating the Tofu with the Sauce

Once the tofu is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and add it to the pan with the sauce. Gently toss the tofu in the sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let the tofu cook in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors and become even more flavorful. This step helps the tofu soak up all the savory and sweet goodness from the sauce.

Serving the Tofu Knots

To finish off your dish, transfer the tofu knots to a serving plate. Top them with a generous sprinkle of chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor. These toppings add a fresh and crunchy contrast to the savory tofu knots, making each bite a delightful experience.

Necessary Tools 

• Air fryer
• Pan
• Kitchen towel
• Bowl
• Cooking spray

Serving Suggestions 

This dish is perfect as a main or a side! Serve it with a bowl of steamed rice or alongside some crispy vegetables. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with a fresh cucumber salad to balance the sweetness of the sauce. You can even add it to a wrap with some greens for a fun twist.

Fun Fact 

Did you know tofu has been enjoyed for over 2,000 years? It’s a staple in many Asian cuisines, known for its versatility. You can cook it in almost any way, and it always absorbs the flavors of whatever you pair it with just like in this sweet garlic soy sauce recipe!

Conclusion 

I hope you give these Sweet Garlic Soy Tofu Knots a try! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and even better the next day. Whether you’re a tofu newbie or a seasoned fan, this dish will make you fall in love with the versatility of tofu all over again. Happy cooking!