Crispy Tofu and Ginger Rice with Scallion Oil
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz)firm tofu (pressed)
- 1½ cupsjasmine rice
- 2½ cupswater
- 4 tablespoonsneutral oil
- 2 tablespoonsfresh ginger
- 4 clovesgarlic
- 3 tablespoonssoy sauce
- 1 tablespoonrice vinegar
- 4 stalksscallions
- 1½ teaspoonssesame oil
- 1 teaspoonkosher salt
Prep
- 01
Press tofu between paper towels or clean kitchen cloth for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 02
Mince 2 tablespoons fresh ginger.
- 03
Mince 4 cloves garlic.
- 04
Slice 4 scallions into thin rings, separating white and green parts.
Method
- 01
Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add 1½ cups rice and 2½ cups water to a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- 02
While rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook without moving for 4 to 5 minutes until golden. Stir gently and cook another 4 to 5 minutes until the second side is golden. Transfer to a plate.
- 03
In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons oil and reduce heat to medium. Add minced ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- 04
Return tofu to the skillet. Stir in 3 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar. Toss gently to coat and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce coats the tofu.
- 05
Divide warm rice among bowls. Top with crispy tofu and sauce. Drizzle each bowl with 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil and scatter chopped scallions on top.
Spice Tips
For subtle heat, add a pinch of white pepper or a few pinches of cayenne to the ginger-garlic mixture. If you like deeper richness, stir a teaspoon of sambal or chili paste into the soy-vinegar sauce. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished bowl adds brightness.
Press tofu thoroughly—the drier it is, the crispier it gets. For a protein boost, add a fried egg on top of each bowl.