
Vegan Lechon Kawali (Dairy-Free)
A vegan twist on the popular Filipino Lechon Kawali (crispy pork belly), made with tofu and a dairy-free dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 block Extra-firm tofu
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup Coconut vinegar
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Onion (diced)
- 1/4 cup Red bell pepper (diced)
Original measure retained: its cup/spoon or fluid-volume standard is unspecified.
Instructions
- 1Place the 1 block of extra-firm tofu on a clean surface and press it firmly to remove as much excess water as possible. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 2.54 cm cubes.
- 2In a medium bowl, combine the 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add the tofu cubes and gently toss to coat. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3Pour enough cooking oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to reach a depth of at least 5.08 cm. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C.
- 4Carefully add the marinated tofu cubes to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the tofu for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried tofu from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- 5While the tofu is frying or draining, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the 1/4 cup coconut vinegar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 cup diced onion, and 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened and the onions and bell peppers are tender.
- 6Serve the crispy tofu immediately with the warm dipping sauce on the side. This dish is best enjoyed with plain steamed rice.
Allergy Disclaimer — Safe Plated Pte. Ltd.
This content is AI-generated by Safe Plated and is not medical advice. AI can make errors and may miss allergens or cross-contamination risks. Always read physical ingredient labels and verify allergen safety independently before preparing or consuming any food. Consult your allergist for guidance specific to your situation.
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