Soy-Free Black Pepper Tofu

Reimagine a takeout favorite with this flavor-packed Soy-Free Black Pepper Tofu recipe, perfect for anyone avoiding soy-based sauces without compromising on bold taste. Crispy, golden tofu cubes are coated in tapioca starch and pan-fried to perfection, then tossed in a peppery, garlicky sauce infused with freshly crushed black peppercorns, aromatic ginger, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. A simple cornstarch-thickened glaze ties it all together, while a splash of rice vinegar adds a tangy kick. Ready in just 35 minutes, this plant-based delight is a quick and easy dinner idea that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles and is naturally gluten-free. Garnished with fresh green onions, it’s a wholesome, mouthwatering twist on traditional black pepper tofu, optimized for a soy-free lifestyle!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 g firm tofu
• 50 g tapioca starch
• 60 ml vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp black peppercorns
• 4 garlic cloves
• 2 inch piece ginger
• 125 ml water
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 stalks green onion

Directions

Step 1

Drain the tofu and press it for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2

In a shallow bowl, toss the tofu cubes with tapioca starch until evenly coated.

Step 3

Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 4

Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and fry for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden and crispy on all sides. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5

While the tofu cooks, crush the black peppercorns coarsely using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Grate the ginger finely.

Step 6

In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the crushed black pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7

In a small bowl, mix water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Stir to dissolve completely.

Step 8

Add the liquid mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 9

Return the tofu to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the tofu absorbs the sauce.

Step 10

Season with salt, adjust according to taste, and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(746.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1088.8

Total Fat 72.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 34.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2450.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 84.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.4g	0%
Total Sugars 16.2g
Protein 45.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 743.5mg	0%
Iron 8.5mg	0%
Potassium 1004.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.8%

Protein: 15.5%

Carbs: 28.8%