When you pair this delicious chili-lime dipping sauce with this crispy little tofu nugget, it's almost too good to share! This crispy tofu can serve as a main course next to rice and stir-fried veggies or alone as an appetizer.
We make no rules when it comes to sharing!
1 cup vegetable oil for frying
1 14-ounce block extra firm organic tofu
3/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
Set the tofu in a press, or wrap the entire block in a clean tea towel, dish towel, or several paper towels and leave to drain for about 30 minutes or more. Balance a large can or heavy pot on top of the towels to help pull as much moisture from the tofu as possible.
(Meanwhile, prepare the Chili Lime Dipping Sauce).
When the tofu has drained completely, cut it in half lengthwise. Then cut five strips vertically. Now go back and cut each one horizontally to make cubes. (You can slice the tofu any way you prefer, depending on your desired result).
Whisk together the cornstarch, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and chili flakes in a large bowl until well combined. Toss the tofu in the cornstarch mixture until all sides are well coated. Set aside.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Start adding the tofu to the skillet. The tofu should immediately sizzle as it enters the pan.
Fry the tofu in 2 to 3 batches if needed so as not to overcrowd the pan, or the tofu may not brown properly.
Turn the tofu continuously while frying just until lightly golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. (Do not overcook).
Remove tofu from the skillet and set on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
Transfer to a 200° oven to keep warm if needed.
Chili Lime Dipping Sauce
1 to 2 tablespoons Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce (add two if you like the heat!)
1/4 cup agave nectar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Whisk together the ingredients for the Chili Lime Dipping Sauce in a small saucepan. Heat mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sauce begins to simmer and thicken.
Remove from heat. Cool slightly before serving.
Refrigerate any leftovers.
