Give this simple Fried Lemongrass Tofu recipe a shot and savor its one-of-a-kind flavor! Vegans can enjoy this delectable and healthy treat, which combines protein-rich tofu with the tang of lemongrass.
Love tofu recipes? Try my saucy Tofu Adobo, Tofu Bopis, or my addicting Tofu Katsu.
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What is Lemongrass Tofu?
This Lemongrass Tofu is a tasty and aromatic vegan recipe made of fried firm tofu mixed with spices, soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable broth, and lemongrass slices, a tropical herb often used in Southeast Asian cuisine.
This tofu dish is popular for its tangy, lemony, sweet, and somewhat spicy flavors from the lemongrass and other spices, which balance the tofu's neutral taste and texture.
Flavorful, fragrant, and hearty, this tofu meal is perfect for vegetarians or vegans. Lemongrass tofu is a popular pair to steamed rice or noodles; for extra flavor, it is sometimes sprinkled with fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil.
Read more below for its cooking tips and quick and simple step-by-step instructions. Enjoy!
Health Benefits of Lemongrass
- Good source of fiber.
- Rich in antioxidants.
- Boosts the body's immunity.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Loaded with anti-inflammatory properties.
Substitutions
- Extra-firm tofu will also work well in this recipe, but don’t use silken tofu, as it will disintegrate when it touches the hot pan.
- You can either use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar in substituting brown sugar.
Variations
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice or add seasoning like salt and peppers to your liking.
- You can also bake the tofu instead of frying for a healthier option.
Storage
Place the leftover lemongrass tofu in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Top Tips
- Press the tofu to remove excess water, which allows it to absorb more flavors during cooking.
- A nonstick skillet must be used in this recipe to prevent the tofu from sticking to the pan. It will ensure a nice, golden crust.
Ingredients
Listed below are all the ingredients you will need:
- vegetable oil
- firm tofu
- sweet onions
- vegetable broth
- garlic cloves
- lemongrass
- soy sauce
- brown sugar
- chilies
- ginger
Instructions
Pour half of the oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Fry the diced tofu until crisp. Remove the fried tofu from the pan and set it aside:
Add the remaining oil to the same skillet. Then stir-fry sweet onions, vegetable broth, mince garlic, sliced lemongrass stalks, soy sauce, brown sugar, chopped chilies, and grated ginger:
Bring the mixture to a simmer for 5 minutes, or reduce to half. Toss back the fried tofu cubes to coat well:
Serve immediately in bowls with steamed rice and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Fried Lemongrass Tofu
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 5 cups firm tofu diced
- ½ cup sweet onions sliced
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic sliced
- ¼ cup sliced lemongrass
- 2½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon chopped chilies
- ½ teaspoon ginger grated
Instructions
- Pour half of the oil into a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Fry the diced tofu until crisp.
- Remove the fried tofu from the pan and set it aside.
- Add the remaining oil to the same skillet.
- Then add sweet onions, vegetable broth, sliced garlic, lemongrass, soy sauce, brown sugar, chopped chilies, and grated ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer for 5 minutes or reduce to half.
- Toss back the fried tofu to coat well.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Watch The Recipe Video!
Julius says
This fried tofu recipe with lemongrass looks amazing and I can't wait to try it! I love that it offers a vegan twist on a traditional Filipino dish. Quick question: Can I use air-fried tofu instead of frying it in oil to make it a bit healthier?