Agedashi Tofu Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Guide

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or simply love trying out new vegan dishes, this Vegan Agedashi Tofu recipe is a must-try! Agedashi tofu is a classic Japanese appetizer known for its delicate texture and flavorful broth.

Traditionally made with deep-fried tofu served in a savory dashi-based sauce, this vegan version keeps all the authenticity while using plant-based ingredients to create a delicious, comforting dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its crispy tofu cubes, umami-rich sauce, and toppings that add texture and color.

Perfect as a starter or a side dish, vegan agedashi tofu is light yet satisfying. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to serve guests.

Plus, it’s gluten-free if you choose tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, making it accessible for many dietary needs. Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that brings the taste of Japan right to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan agedashi tofu recipe is a beautiful blend of crispy, silky, and savory elements that work harmoniously together. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Easy to make: Requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free Friendly: Uses plant-based ingredients and can be adapted to gluten-free needs.
• Crispy yet Soft: The tofu is perfectly fried to a golden crisp outside while staying silky inside.
• Umami-packed sauce: The dashi-inspired broth is rich in flavor without needing fish products.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or side dish alongside your favorite Asian meals.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy tofu with a burst of flavor and texture, making it a beloved dish for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Ingredients

• 400g firm tofu (pressed and drained)
• 1/2 cup potato starch or cornstarch (for coating)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 cups water
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp dashi powder (vegan, kombu-based)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup grated daikon radish (optional but traditional)
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 sheet nori, finely shredded (optional garnish)
• Shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven spice) for sprinkling (optional)

Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Heavy frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels or clean kitchen towel (for draining tofu)
• Saucepan
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Grater (for daikon and ginger)
• Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial to achieve a crispy texture when frying.
2. Cut the tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into 8 equal cubes. Pat each cube dry again to remove any surface moisture.
3. Coat the tofu: Place the potato starch or cornstarch in a shallow dish. Lightly coat each tofu cube with the starch, shaking off any excess. This coating will help create the crispy outer layer.
4. Heat the oil: In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil to 170-180°C (340-360°F). Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of tofu; it should sizzle immediately.
5. Fry the tofu: Carefully add the tofu cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu and drain on paper towels.
6. Make the sauce: While frying, prepare the broth. In a saucepan, combine water, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and vegan dashi powder. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar and dashi.
7. Assemble the dish: Divide the fried tofu cubes into serving bowls. Pour the warm sauce over the tofu. Top with grated daikon, sliced green onions, and grated ginger. Add shredded nori and a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi if you like a bit of heat.
8. Serve immediately: Agedashi tofu is best enjoyed hot to appreciate the contrast between the crispy exterior and silky interior.

Tips & Variations

“For the crispiest tofu, double-fry the tofu cubes. Fry once until light golden, remove and let them cool for a few minutes, then fry again until deep golden and crispy.”

• Tofu type: Use firm or extra-firm tofu to hold shape during frying.
• Dashi substitute: If you can’t find vegan dashi powder, make your own broth using kombu (kelp) and shiitake mushrooms simmered in water.
• Gluten-free option: Replace soy sauce with tamari and ensure your dashi powder is gluten-free.
• Additional toppings: Try adding bonito-style vegan flakes, chopped cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds.
• Air fryer method: For a lighter version, coat tofu with starch and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition Facts

*Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods used.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan agedashi tofu pairs wonderfully with a variety of Japanese-inspired dishes. Serve it as an appetizer or alongside a main entrée for a well-rounded meal.

• Pair with steamed jasmine or sushi rice for a simple, satisfying meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh cucumber sunomono salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Complement with a bowl of miso soup or seaweed salad for a traditional touch.
• Try it with other vegan Japanese dishes like Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes or a crunchy side salad.

Conclusion

Vegan agedashi tofu is a delightful dish that beautifully showcases the versatility of tofu and the depth of Japanese flavors without relying on animal products. The crispy tofu cubes, combined with a savory, umami-rich broth and fresh garnishes, offer a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or an experienced plant-based foodie, this recipe is easy to master and sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. It’s also a wonderful dish to impress guests or enjoy as a cozy meal at home.

For more plant-powered inspiration, you might enjoy exploring other vegan dishes like our Blackberry Juicing Recipes or delicious vegan-friendly 50 Cupcake Recipes. And if you love savory delights, check out the Bread And Gravy Recipe for a comforting classic!

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