Fried Tofu

Instructions

1. Drain the tofu. Slice the blocks lengthwise into 4 slabs. Press the tofu for 10 to 15 minutes.
2. Slice each slab in half, lengthwise, so you have 8 slabs. From there, cut the tofu into ½” cubes.
3. Add tofu cubes to a large bowl. Sprinkle tofu with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, several cracks of pepper, and add the cornstarch. Toss gently with your hands (or a silicone spatula) to avoid breaking tofu.
4. Heat a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat with the oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tofu. Push the tofu around in the oil to evenly coat in one layer. Fry until golden brown on the bottom, 6 to 7 minutes. Take a minute or two to carefully flip each piece with a thin spatula (an angled silicone spatula is very helpful!). Cook on the second side until golden brown on the bottom, about 5 minutes.NOTE: some pieces may stick together due to the starch, but they are easy to pull apart (and it makes flipping the tofu a bit easier).
5. Transfer tofu to a paper towel lined surface to blot away excess oil. Push tofu pieces together and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.