Pan fried tofu with garlic sauce (鱼香豆腐)

Step 1

Cut tofu into squares of about 1.5cm/ 0.5inch thick. Pad each piece dry with a clean tea towel or kitchen paper. Sift corn starch over tofu to create a thin coating (both sides).

Step 2

Heat up 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok (or a frying pan) over high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the tofu squares into the pan (Do not overlap. You might have to fry them in 2 batches).

Step 3

Turn the heat down to medium. When one side becomes golden brown, flip over to cook the other side. Transfer onto a plate when both sides are done.

Step 4

While waiting for the tofu to cook, mix Shaoxing rice wine, black rice vinegar, water, sugar and corn starch. Set aside.

Step 5

Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil into the same wok. Stir fry ginger, garlic, fresh chilli & Sichuan chilli bean paste until fragrant.

Step 6

Pour in the liquid mixture (remember to stir well beforehand).

Step 7

Place tofu squares back into the wok. Gently move them around. Dish out when the sauce becomes thick and the tofu is evenly coated.

Step 8

Garnish with scallions. Serve immediately with plain rice.