Fried and Soy-Seasoned Tofu Cubes (두부강정)

Kid-Friendly Fried and Soy-Seasoned Tofu Cubes (두부강정) even picky eaters will love!

[2 Servings, 30 Minutes or Less, Easy to Make]

Fried and Soy-Seasoned Tofu Cubes (두부강정) is a delightful Korean dish that has become a favorite among children for its crispy texture and delicious flavor. This recipe transforms ordinary tofu into a scrumptious treat, making it a great way to get kids to enjoy tofu. The dish combines the crunchy exterior of the tofu with a sweet and savory sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It's an excellent choice for a quick and nutritious snack or side dish, and it's so tasty that even those who aren't fond of tofu will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• Tofu, 1/2 block

• Frying Mix (or Pancake Mix), 1/2 cup
• Ketchup, 3 tablespoons
• Sugar, 1 tablespoon
• Oligosaccharide (올리고당 - can substitute with simple syrup or similar sweetener), 2 tablespoons
• Soy Sauce, 2 tablespoons
• Minced Garlic, 1 tablespoon

Instructions:

1. Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces, suitable for kids. Lay the pieces on a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Use a plastic bag to coat the tofu pieces evenly with the frying mix. You can shake the bag to ensure the tofu is fully covered.
3. Fry the coated tofu in a pan with oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. For a crunchier texture, cook them on low heat for a longer time.
4. While the tofu is frying, prepare the sauce by mixing ketchup, sugar, oligosaccharide (or simple syrup or similar sweetener), soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl.
5. Once the tofu is crispy, remove excess oil by placing them on a kitchen towel.
6. Heat the sauce in a pan until it starts to bubble, then turn off the heat to avoid burning.
7. Add the fried tofu to the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. If you have sesame seeds, sprinkle them on top for a finishing touch.

Notes: This dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to introduce tofu to children. You can adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce to cater to different taste preferences. Skewer these up to make a nice appetizer!