Ingredients

The following ingredients have 2 Servings
  • 1 pound firm tofu
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorn powder ((optional))
  • 1 teaspoon red chili pepper powder
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons oil ((plus 1 teaspoon))
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro ((chopped))
  • 1 tablespoon scallion ((chopped))

Instruction

  • Open the package of tofu and place on a plate to drain for 10 minutes. Slice it into ¾-inch thick pieces. Use a mortar and pestle to roughly crush the cumin seeds and add the Sichuan peppercorn powder if using, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
  • Combine 1 teaspoon oil, hoisin, and soy sauce in small bowl. Heat two tablespoons of oil in a cast iron skillet or nonstick pan over high heat and carefully place the tofu in the pan.
  • Next, sprinkle about half of the dried spices evenly over the tofu and let cook for 3-5 minutes. When the bottom is golden brown, flip the tofu. Brush the tofu with about half of the sauce and sprinkle over the rest of the spices. Cook for 3 minutes and flip the tofu over again.
  • Brush the other side with the remaining sauce, sprinkle with scallion and cilantro, and serve.