Silken Tofu With Spicy Soy Dressing Recipe

Introduction

Silken tofu with spicy soy dressing is a delicate and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a light appetizer or a refreshing side. The smooth texture of silken tofu pairs beautifully with a spicy, savory dressing that wakes up your taste buds. This easy recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal ingredients.

A smooth block of soft tofu sits in a white bowl filled with an orange-red chili oil sauce, partly cut to reveal its silky white inside; on top, there is a generous layer of finely chopped green onions, white sesame seeds, and dark bits that look like pickled or dried vegetables, adding texture and color contrast. A golden spoon holds a small piece of tofu, coated in the chili oil sauce, resting on the bowl's edge. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 12-ounce block silken tofu*
  • 1½ tablespoons soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon maple syrup (or sugar)
  • 1 scallion, thinly sliced with a few green slices reserved for garnish
  • 2 teaspoons chili crisp* (more to taste)
  • ½ tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sliced scallion, and chili crisp. Taste and add more chili crisp if you prefer it spicier. Refrigerate the dressing until ready to serve.
  2. Step 2: Carefully peel back the film on diagonally opposing edges of the tofu package and tilt to drain off excess liquid. Flip the package over and pierce the bottom plastic container with a sharp paring knife to drain further. Remove the clear plastic film completely.
  3. Step 3: Gently loosen the edges of the tofu by pulling away the sides of the plastic or running a sharp knife along the inside edges. Turn the tofu block onto a serving plate and gently pat dry with a paper towel or clean kitchen cloth.
  4. Step 4: Pour the spicy soy dressing evenly over the tofu block. Garnish with reserved green scallion slices and toasted sesame seeds. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

  • Use homemade chili crisp or a good-quality store-bought brand to enhance flavor and heat.
  • Try adding finely grated ginger or minced garlic to the dressing for extra depth.
  • Swap maple syrup for honey or agave syrup if preferred.
  • Serve with steamed rice or fresh vegetables for a more complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftover tofu and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat is not recommended as the silken tofu is best served cold or at room temperature. If necessary, bring to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

A white rectangular block of soft tofu sits in the center of a white plate, with subtle vertical lines on its sides. A dark red-brown sauce, oily and glossy, is being poured over the tofu from a white, textured pouring vessel in the top right corner. On top of the tofu, the sauce has small pieces of red chili, sliced green onions, and tiny bits of dark fermented black beans floating, adding texture and color contrast. The sauce pools around the tofu, creating a rich, shiny layer that spreads unevenly on the white plate. The background is a clean white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use firm tofu instead of silken tofu?

Silken tofu has a delicate texture that works best with this dish. Firm tofu will change the mouthfeel and may not absorb the dressing as well, but it can be used if preferred.

Is chili crisp very spicy?

Chili crisp offers a balanced heat with savory and crunchy elements. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance and add more if you like it spicier.

Print

Silken Tofu With Spicy Soy Dressing Recipe

A delicate and refreshing Silken Tofu dish served with a vibrant and spicy soy dressing. This easy-to-prepare recipe combines silky smooth tofu with a flavorful blend of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chilli crisp, garnished with scallions and toasted sesame seeds for a perfect balance of heat and umami. Ideal as a light appetizer or side dish served chilled or at room temperature.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

Silken Tofu

  • 1 12-ounce block silken tofu

Spicy Soy Dressing

  • 1½ tablespoons soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon maple syrup or sugar
  • 2 teaspoons chilli crisp (adjust more or less to taste)

Garnish

  • 1 scallion, thinly sliced (reserve a few green slices for garnish)
  • ½ tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spicy Soy Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, scallions, and chilli crisp. Taste the dressing and add additional chilli crisp if you prefer more heat. Once combined, refrigerate the dressing until ready to use to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the Silken Tofu: Carefully peel back the plastic film on diagonally opposing edges of the tofu package and tilt slightly to drain off excess liquid. Flip the package and use a sharp paring knife to pierce the bottom plastic to help release any remaining liquid. Remove the clear plastic film entirely. Gently loosen the edges of the tofu by pulling the sides of the plastic away or gently running a knife along the inside edges. Turn the block of tofu onto a serving plate carefully to avoid breaking it. Use a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to pat the tofu block dry gently.
  3. Assemble and Serve: Pour the chilled spicy soy dressing evenly over the silken tofu block. Garnish with the reserved green scallion slices and toasted sesame seeds. This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature as a light appetizer or side dish.

Notes

  • Handle silken tofu gently as it is very delicate and can break easily.
  • Adjust the amount of chilli crisp to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • For a vegan version, ensure the soy sauce and chilli crisp used are vegan-friendly.
  • Serve this dish chilled for a refreshing taste, especially in warm weather.
  • Can be paired with steamed rice or noodles for a simple and light meal.

Keywords: Silken tofu, spicy soy dressing, tofu appetizer, chilli crisp tofu, vegan tofu recipe, easy tofu dish

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