Ingredients:
350g firm tofu, pressed and chopped into cubes
50g cornflour, or more if needed
2 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon honey, or sugar
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 tablespoon chilli oil (optional, but a must for me!)
Garnish: chopped spring onions, sesame seeds.

Instructions:
Remove tofu from packaging and drain. If tofu needs pressing, wrap a sheet of kitchen towel and place some heavy plates on top and leave to drain for 30 mins.
Chop the drained tofu into bitesize cubes, and cover generously in cornflour on all sides.
Mix the soy sauce, vinegar, sugar and minced garlic together and set aside.
Heat up a frying pan with the vegetable oil and sesame oil, and lightly fry the tofu pieces until golden on all sides. Try not to move the tofu too much and let it brown, only move it to prevent burning.
Once tofu is crispy, add in the sauce and combine thoroughly in the pan. Add in the chilli oil if desired and mix through.
Serve and garnish with some chopped spring onions and sesame seeds, and enjoy with some steamed rice and vegetables.

CRISPY GARLIC SOY TOFU

Step into the realm of plant-based culinary excellence with the Vegan Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu—an enticing dish that masterfully combines textures and flavors to elevate tofu to a whole new level. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of tofu but also introduces an irresistible medley of crispiness, umami richness, and aromatic garlic notes. As we embark on this culinary journey, we discover that vegan cuisine holds the power to redefine perceptions and captivate taste buds.

At the heart of the Vegan Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu lies the transformative power of tofu, a canvas for culinary creativity. Tofu’s inherent ability to absorb flavors makes it the perfect protagonist in this dish. From the very first slice, the tofu undergoes a marinade bathed in the deep umami embrace of soy sauce, setting the stage for a symphony of flavors that unfold with every golden, crispy bite.

The alchemy of creating the perfect crisp exterior involves a delicate dance between seasonings and cooking techniques. The tofu, having absorbed the savory marinade, is gently coated in a combination of cornstarch and spices. As it meets the sizzle of the hot pan, a symphony of sizzling and popping heralds the birth of a crispy golden crust that envelops the tofu, creating a textural contrast that is simply irresistible.

The star of this dish, the garlic, adds a layer of aromatic complexity that elevates the tofu to a culinary masterpiece. As it sizzles in the pan alongside the tofu, the garlic releases its fragrant oils, infusing the entire dish with a captivating aroma. This marriage of crispy tofu and garlic creates a harmonious balance, where each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by the nuanced richness of soy and the boldness of garlic.

This Vegan Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu not only excels in taste but also aligns seamlessly with a plant-based lifestyle. Rooted in the principles of ethical and sustainable living, this dish exemplifies how cruelty-free choices can be a gastronomic adventure rather than a compromise. The tofu, a beacon of plant-based protein, invites us to embrace a world where culinary excellence meets compassionate living.

Presenting the Vegan Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu is an invitation to savor the vibrant spectrum of vegan flavors and textures. It challenges preconceived notions about tofu, proving that with the right techniques and flavors, this humble ingredient can transcend expectations. As each bite unfolds, one becomes part of a culinary journey that celebrates the artistry of plant-based cooking, where creativity, compassion, and indulgence converge in a symphony of flavors that linger on the palate long after the last morsel is savored.

A vegan diet has numerous benefits, and here are some important points
Health Benefits:
Nutrient-Rich: A well-balanced vegan diet can provide all the necessary nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting overall health.
Heart Health: Studies suggest that a vegan diet may lower the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Weight Management: Many people find that adopting a vegan diet helps with weight management due to lower calorie intake and increased consumption of whole, plant-based foods.
Environmental Impact:
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. A vegan diet helps reduce your carbon footprint and combat climate change.
Conservation of Resources: Producing plant-based foods generally requires fewer natural resources like water and land compared to animal farming, contributing to sustainable resource use.
Ethical Considerations:
Animal Welfare: Choosing a vegan lifestyle aligns with ethical considerations, promoting the well-being of animals and avoiding their exploitation for food.
Reduced Animal Suffering: By opting for plant-based alternatives, individuals contribute to the reduction of animal suffering associated with factory farming and other industrial practices.
Diverse Culinary Options:
Creative Cooking: Adopting a vegan diet encourages exploration of diverse and creative cooking techniques, using a wide range of fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds.
Global Cuisine: Veganism opens up the opportunity to explore and appreciate a variety of global cuisines that are naturally plant-based, fostering a rich and flavorful culinary experience.
Disease Prevention:
Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that a vegan diet may lower the risk of certain cancers, including colorectal and breast cancer.
Type 2 Diabetes: Plant-based diets have been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes due to their positive effects on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels.
Economic Considerations:
Cost-Effective: A vegan diet can be cost-effective, as plant-based staples like beans, lentils, and grains are often more affordable than meat and dairy products.
Reduced Healthcare Costs: By promoting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, a vegan diet may lead to lower healthcare costs in the long run.
Community and Social Impact:
Supporting Sustainable Practices: Choosing vegan options supports businesses and practices that prioritize sustainability, contributing to a positive societal shift towards more eco-friendly choices.
Community Engagement: The growing popularity of veganism has led to the emergence of a vibrant and supportive community that shares recipes, tips, and encouragement.