Serves 42
40 min
Tofu Wanzi (Fried Tofu and Bacon Fritters)
Recipe GLPRfb9704c779bb7d
Golden-fried tofu and bacon fritters packed with savory flavor and a crispy exterior. These Asian-inspired bites combine soft and firm tofu with crispy bacon, scallions, and a light binding of egg, then are panfried until golden brown. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Save recipes you love
Create a free Grocery List Plus account to save recipes, rate them, and add every ingredient to your grocery list in one tap.
Ingredients
2 boxes soft or silken tofu (12 1/2 oz. each)
1 box firm tofu (12 1/2 oz.)
2/3 cup panko bread crumbs
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sesame oil
5 scallions, finely chopped
4 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
2 eggs, lightly beaten
Kosher salt to taste
Freshly ground white pepper to taste
Canola oil for frying
Directions
Drain the soft/silken tofu and firm tofu thoroughly. Crumble both varieties into a large mixing bowl, breaking them into small, even pieces. The texture should resemble coarse crumbs.
Add the panko bread crumbs and flour to the crumbled tofu. Toss gently to combine and distribute the dry ingredients evenly throughout.
Pour the sesame oil over the tofu mixture. Mix gently but thoroughly until the oil is fully incorporated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Fold in the finely chopped scallions and cooked bacon pieces, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
Create a well in the center of the mixture and add the lightly beaten eggs. Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture becomes cohesive, similar to a thick paste.
Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste. Mix well to distribute seasonings evenly.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add canola oil until it reaches a depth of about 1/2 inch and reaches 350°F (175°C).
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop rounded portions of the tofu mixture into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Each fritter should be roughly 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on the first side until deep golden brown and crispy. Flip gently with a slotted spoon or chopsticks and fry the second side for another 2-3 minutes until uniformly golden brown and crispy.
Transfer the finished fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep warm while finishing remaining batches.
Serve the tofu wanzi warm as an appetizer or main course, optionally accompanied by your choice of dipping sauce such as soy sauce, chili sauce, or sweet and sour sauce.
