Salt and pepper tofu

Method

1. 1 Cut the tofu into blocks and press them between two layers of paper under a heavy object for 30 minutes.
2. 2 Pressing out the water is essential; if the beans still contain water, the oil will splatter excessively and the shells will not be crispy.
3. 3 Roast coarse salt and Sichuan peppercorns in a dry pan for 3 minutes, then grind them into a fine salt and pepper mixture.
4. 4 Coat the beans with a very thin layer of cornstarch, then pat off the excess.
5. 5 Deep-fry at 180 degrees for 4 minutes, then remove, drain, and fry a second time for 40 seconds.
6. 6 Sauté minced garlic with green chilies, then mix with beans and sprinkle with crushed salt and pepper along with chopped scallions.

With an appliance

• Air fryer 30 min

  Replace step 5: spray evenly with oil, then bake in a hot air oven at 200 degrees for 14 minutes, shaking the basket twice; the crust will be crispier and drier than deep-fried.