Agedashi Tofu (Fried Tofu in Dashi Broth)
Why this recipe works
- Light, crisp coating: Cornflour forms a delicate crust around the tofu, giving contrast before it softens slightly in the broth.
- Clean savoury depth: Dashi, soy sauce and mirin create a balanced broth with umami, saltiness and gentle sweetness.
- Classic serving style: Hot fried tofu is added to warm broth just before serving, preserving the signature contrast of crisp edges and soft centre.
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Timing notes
- Serve straight away: Agedashi tofu is at its best immediately after frying, before the coating absorbs too much broth.
- Prepare toppings first: Grate the daikon, slice the spring onion and grate the ginger before frying so the tofu can go straight from the oil to the bowl.
Texture tips
- Dry the tofu thoroughly: Patting the tofu dry before coating helps the cornflour cling evenly and reduces spluttering in the oil.
- Fry in batches: Avoid crowding the wok, as too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and make the coating heavier.
Ingredient notes
- Use firm tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape during frying while still giving a soft interior once served in the broth.
- Mirin contains alcohol: Simmering reduces some alcohol but does not remove it completely; use the suggested water and sugar swap if needed.
- Cornflour or potato starch: Cornflour gives a light crust, while potato starch creates an even finer, crisper coating.
Serving ideas
- Finish with fresh toppings: Grated daikon, spring onion and ginger cut through the fried tofu and lift the savoury broth.
- Serve as part of a Japanese meal: Pair with steamed rice, pickles or a simple green vegetable for a light dinner-style spread.
Equipment you'll need
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the daikon, then tip into a sieve and press lightly to remove excess liquid; keep it cool while you cook. Thinly slice the spring onions and finely grate the ginger.
- In a saucepan, whisk the dashi powder with the water, then add the soy sauce, mirin and caster sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then keep warm on low.
- Drain the tofu well, then cut into 6 to 8 even pieces. Pat dry thoroughly, then coat all over with the cornflour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok to 170°C (340°F). Fry the tofu in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until pale golden and crisp; lift out and drain briefly.
- Divide the hot tofu between two bowls and ladle over the warm dashi broth. Top with the grated daikon, spring onion and a little ginger, and serve straight away while the tofu is still crisp.
Recipe notes
Tips
- Drying the tofu well before coating is the key to a crisp crust and less oil splatter.
- Keep the broth at a gentle simmer only; boiling can dull the flavour and make it taste harsh.
- If serving anyone who should avoid alcohol, note that mirin contains alcohol; simmering reduces it but does not remove it completely.
Substitutions
- Replace Mirin with the same amount of Water plus an extra 1 tsp Caster sugar for a similar balance of sweetness.
- Replace Cornflour with Potato starch for an even lighter, crisper coating.
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 2 days
- Store the broth and toppings in the fridge for up to 2 days. The tofu is best eaten immediately; if you must store it, keep it separate and reheat in a 200°C (390°F) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until hot and re-crisped, then serve with reheated broth.
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Recipe overview
- Servings: 2 servings
- Total time: 35min (30min active)
- Difficulty: Medium
- Cuisine: Japanese
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Allergens:
Soybeans
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