Crispy Pan-Fried Five Spice Tofu [ gluten-free + vegan]

This simple pan-fried tofu uses Chinese Five Spice. The mix varies slightly based on the region of China it comes from but the one I have includes cinnamon, cloves, star anise, ginger, and fennel. This aromatic combination imparts an rich aroma that reminds me of Chinese BBQ. I love it when I can get “meaty” flavours out of completely meat-less ingredients!

Also, check out this recipe for Chinese Five Spice Seitan [   • Vegan Chinese Five Spice Seitan  ].

Where can you buy Chinese Five Spice? Find it in the ethic aisle of major supermarkets. Or track it down in Asian grocery stores. If all else fails, find it online. Here are some options from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=...

Using homemade tofu is best for this recipe, but if you don't feel like making it yourself, you can use medium to firm tofu. However, rinse your tofu well in fresh water, then press it to force out the excess water. Here's my easy homemade tofu tutorial that requires only plain soymilk, lemon juice and water:    • How To Make Tofu (with just soymilk, lemon...  

RECIPE FOR PAN-FRIED CHINESE FIVE SPICE TOFU
Click here for the printable recipe: http://www.marystestkitchen.com/pan-f...
Makes 1-2 servings

INGREDIENTS
4 oz (about 125g) firm tofu cut into bite sized pieces, 1/2" thick (about 1 cm)
1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil

Marinade:
1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon maple syrup

Dry Coating:
1/2 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon Chinese Five Spice Powder

DIRECTIONS
Blot the excess moisture from the tofu pieces.

Mix the soy sauce and maple syrup together for the marinade.

Toss the tofu pieces in the marinade gently and let rest for a few minutes.

Combine the dry ingredients.

Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting the excess liquid drip off.

Coat the tofu in the dry mix by gently pressing each side into the dry mix.

Heat a non-stick pan on high heat with a half tablespoon of cooking oil.

When the oil will start to shimmer when it is hot enough but not smoking. Place the tofu on to the pan and let cook for 20 to 30 seconds.

Turn the heat down to medium and allow the tofu to cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, or until the bottom is well browned.

Use a spatula or chopsticks to flip the pieces. Continue to cook on the other side for a minute or until that side is browned to your preference.

Remove the tofu from the pan, and let cool slightly before eating.

Enjoy!

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