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Agedashi Tofu Recipe

Agedashi Tofu Recipe

Agedashi Tofu Recipe is a must-try. Crispy on the outside, silky smooth on the inside, and served in a light, savory broth, agedashi tofu is one of Japan’s most beloved appetizers. Despite its elegant appearance, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home using a handful of authentic ingredients.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 14 ounces 400g soft or medium-firm tofu
  • ½ cup potato starch or cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil for frying
For the Broth
  • cups dashi stock
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
For Garnish
  • Grated daikon radish
  • Fresh grated ginger
  • Sliced green onions
  • Bonito flakes
  • Shichimi togarashi optional

Equipment

  • Deep saucepan or frying pot
  • Small saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels
  • Slotted spoon
  • Wire rack
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
  1. Remove the tofu from its package and gently drain the excess liquid. Wrap it in several layers of paper towels and place a light weight, such as a plate, on top for about 15 minutes to remove additional moisture. Once drained, cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes.
    Agedashi Tofu Recipe (1)
Step 2: Coat the Tofu
  1. Place the potato starch in a shallow bowl. Lightly coat each tofu cube on all sides, gently shaking off any excess starch. A thin, even coating will create the signature crispy exterior.
    Agedashi Tofu Recipe (6)
Step 3: Fry the Tofu
  1. Heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep saucepan or frying pot. Carefully add the coated tofu cubes in small batches and fry for about 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are crisp and golden. Transfer the fried tofu to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
    Agedashi Tofu Recipe (5)
Step 4: Prepare the Broth
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling vigorously to preserve the delicate flavors.
    Agedashi Tofu Recipe (4)
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
  1. Place several pieces of freshly fried tofu into individual serving bowls. Carefully pour the warm dashi broth around the tofu without fully covering the crispy tops so they retain some crunch.
    Agedashi Tofu Recipe (2)
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
  1. Top each bowl of agedashi tofu with freshly grated daikon radish, grated ginger, sliced green onions, and a handful of bonito flakes. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle a pinch of shichimi togarashi over the dish.
  2. Serve immediately while the tofu is still crispy and the broth is warm. Agedashi tofu is best enjoyed fresh, as the contrast between the crunchy coating and silky tofu is what makes this Japanese appetizer so special.
    Agedashi Tofu Recipe (3)

Video

Notes

Agedashi tofu pairs beautifully with a variety of Japanese dishes.
  • Steamed Japanese rice
  • Miso soup
  • Sushi rolls
  • Vegetable tempura
  • Chicken teriyaki
  • Salmon teriyaki
  • Chicken katsu
  • Soba noodles
  • Udon noodles
  • Seaweed salad
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Edamame