Crispy tempura tofu stacked on a plate in a bright modern kitchen

Tempura Tofu

LEVEL Intermediate
PREP TIME 15 minutes
TOTAL TIME 2½ hours, including freezing
SERVINGS Makes 7 tofu slices · Serves 2
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Prepare to Be Converted

Tempura tofu brings savory flavor, tender texture, and plenty of golden crunch. If your last tofu experience tasted like cardboard, consider this the delicious do-over you deserve.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 package extra-firm tofu, cut into seven ¼-inch slices
  • 1 bag Ms. Wong's Tempura Mix
  • ½ cup ice-cold water
  • 60 ounces vegetable oil, for a 6-quart pot
  • Your favorite dipping sauce

MARINADE

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic chili sauce

SHOP NOW

Directions

STEP 1: Heat the Oil
Pour 2 to 3 inches of oil into a deep pot and heat it to 380°F.

Pouring oil into the pot with a clip-on thermometer attached

STEP 2: Marinate & Prep the Tofu
Mix the marinade ingredients and pour them over the tofu slices. Let the tofu absorb the marinade, then arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, until firm.

⭐ Pro tip: Freezing the marinated tofu until firm helps it hold together in the oil.

Slicing extra firm tofu into quarter-inch slicesMarinated tofu slices on a parchment-lined tray, ready to freeze

STEP 3: Batter Up
Gently mix 1 bag Ms. Wong's Tempura Mix with ½ cup ice-cold water until just combined.

Whisking Ms. Wong's Tempura Mix with ice-cold water

STEP 4: Fry Fearlessly
Coat each tofu slice in batter and carefully place it in the 380°F oil. Fry for about 2 minutes, until golden and crispy. Work in two batches.

Lowering battered tofu into the hot oil

STEP 5: Serve & Enjoy
Rest the tofu on a rack for 1 minute, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Lifting golden tempura tofu from the oil onto the cooling rack