Fried Tofu with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Fried Tofu with Peanut Dipping Sauce -

In Thailand, you find the fried tofu sold at the same stall or cart with fried taro. It is a wonderful snack even for those who are not so fond of tofu because the sweet cilantro and peanut sauce makes up for the bland tofu. I highly recommend this as a snack or appetizer even if you are not a vegetarian. I often bring this dish to potlucks because it is fast, tasty and both vegetarians and non-vegetarians enjoy it.

Ingredients:

1 bag Cubed Deep Fried Tofu

Directions:

Cut the tofu cubes into half and place them in a toaster oven or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit on a cookie sheet, cast iron pan or a piece of aluminum foil for a few minutes. You just want to toast them. If you like them crispy, use lower heat and leave them in the oven longer. Flip every few minutes to toast all sides.
If pre-fried tofu cubes are not available, I suggest using extra firm tofu. Press out the water with paper towel or kitchen towel. Cut the tofu into bite size pieces. Deep fry the tofu in oil until golden brown.
Serve hot with cilantro, peanut sauce below.

Peanut Dipping Sauce for Fried Tofu (Nam Jim Tou Hu Tod):

Ingredients:

5-7 sprigs sliced cilantro
1 teaspoon ground fresh chili paste
2 tablespoons toasted and crushed peanuts
1 pinch salt
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons vinegar

Directions:

In a microwavable bowl, combine sugar, ground fresh chili paste, salt and vinegar. Heat up for a minute or until sugar is dissolved.  Stir the sauce with a spoon to blend all the ingredients in.  Add the crushed, toasted peanuts and top with the sliced cilantro.


Tips:
In Thailand, peanuts are used. However, I have successfully substituted almonds for peanuts for people with peanut allergy.
Use a large microwaveable bowl to prevent over boiling.