Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls

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Savory soy garlic tofu balls served on a plate with dipping sauce
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Why Make This Recipe

Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls are a fantastic dish for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. These tofu balls are packed with flavor and have a satisfying texture that will please even non-vegetarians. Whether you are looking for a meatless option or simply want to try something new, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Plus, they are simple to make and can be served as a main dish or a snack.

How to Make Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls

Ingredients

  • 1 block Tofu (Pressed to remove excess moisture)
  • 2 tablespoons Corn Starch (Key for crispy exterior)
  • 4 cloves Garlic (Minced)
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Low-sodium optional)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetarian Oyster Sauce (Or hoisin sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Chinese black vinegar alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar (Brown sugar recommended)
  • 1/4 cup Water (To balance sauce consistency)
  • 2 stalks Scallion (Use both green and white parts)
  • 1 medium Shallot (Or red onion)
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Any bell pepper variety works)
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (Or sesame oil for flavor)

Directions

  1. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes.
  2. Once pressed, crumble the tofu into a bowl.
  3. Add the minced garlic, corn starch, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar to the bowl. Mix well until combined.
  4. Chop the scallions, shallot, and red bell pepper. Add them to the tofu mixture and stir well.
  5. Form the mixture into small balls using your hands, about the size of a golf ball.
  6. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu balls to the pan.
  7. Cook the tofu balls for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  8. In a small bowl, mix together the water and any remaining soy sauce mixture. Pour it into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
  9. Remove the tofu balls from the pan and serve hot.

How to Serve Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls

These tofu balls are great on their own or served with a side of steamed rice or noodles. You can also garnish them with extra chopped scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch. They make a wonderful addition to salads or can be enjoyed as a tasty appetizer at gatherings.

How to Store Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a quick snack.

Tips to Make Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls

  • Make sure to press the tofu well to get the best texture.
  • Adjust the sauces to your taste. You can add more garlic or use less sugar based on your preference.
  • If you like spicy food, consider adding some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

Variation

You can experiment by adding different vegetables to the tofu ball mixture, such as grated carrots or chopped mushrooms. You can also include herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor. Try substituting different sauces to create unique flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I use firm or extra-firm tofu?
Yes, firm or extra-firm tofu works best as they hold their shape well and provide a better texture for the tofu balls.

Can these tofu balls be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked tofu balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag for later use.

What can I serve with these tofu balls?
These tofu balls pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They also make great appetizers with dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy sauce.

Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls

Delicious and healthy tofu balls packed with savory flavors, perfect as a main dish or snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Asian, Vegetarian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 block Tofu, pressed to remove excess moisture Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Corn Starch Key for crispy exterior.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce, low-sodium optional
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetarian Oyster Sauce or hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar, or Chinese black vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar, brown recommended
  • 1/4 cup Water To balance sauce consistency.
  • 2 stalks Scallion, both green and white parts
  • 1 medium Shallot or red onion
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper, any variety
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil or sesame oil For flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes.
  2. Crumble the pressed tofu into a bowl.
  3. Add the minced garlic, corn starch, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar to the bowl. Mix well until combined.
  4. Chop the scallions, shallot, and red bell pepper. Add them to the tofu mixture and stir well.
  5. Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Cooking
  1. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu balls to the pan.
  2. Cook the tofu balls for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the water and any remaining soy sauce mixture. Pour it into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove the tofu balls from the pan and serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan or microwave. Adjust sauces and seasonings to preference.