Agedashi tofu with black pepper broth
Which Japanese restaurant's appetiser do you prefer the most? Many JOC readers have remarked to me how much they adore ordering Agedashi Tofu. These gently fried crispy tofu have a melt-in-your-mouth texture and an airy crispness and are served in a sweet-savoury broth. You wish you could eat the entire dish yourself because it is that amazing! Crispy deep-fried tofu served in a flavorful umami sauce, Agedashi Tofu is a popular appetiser you can find at izakayas and Japanese restaurants. It requires deep-frying, but the process is easier than you think. Skip the bonito flakes to make it vegan-friendly! INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup (60 ml) kombu tsuyu (from Asian grocers; substitute soy sauce) 2 tbsp (40g) black pepper base (recipe below) Vegetable oil, to fry 100g kuzu (cooking starch, from Asian grocers; substitute cornflour) 2 x 450g packets of firm tofu, drained, cut into 5cm pieces Shaved bonito, to serve Slice long green shallots to serve. BLACK