Tofu Pepero (Korean Snack Stick)
Tofu Pepero (Korean Snack Stick)
Homemade Healthy and Nutty Tofu Pepero: Perfect for Kids’ Snacks or with Beer! A Special Recipe for Pepero Day
This Pepero Day, let’s make a healthier and tastier version of the classic snack! Introducing ‘Tofu Pepero,’ a delightful treat made with soft tofu and savory nut powders. It’s incredibly easy to make and offers a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition for the whole family to enjoy.
Main Ingredients- 550g firm tofu (such as Sundubu or a firm variety)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 Tbsp black bean powder
- 2 Tbsp black sesame powder
- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Savory-Sweet Glaze- 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing the tofu. Cut the firm tofu into sticks approximately 1.5 cm thick. It’s important to cut them to a substantial thickness so they don’t break apart easily during frying.
Step 2
In a deep frying pan, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 cm. Heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tofu sticks and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer the fried tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step ensures a wonderfully crisp texture.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the delicious glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce, 2 Tbsp corn syrup (or your preferred liquid sweetener), and 1 Tbsp sesame oil. Once the glaze is ready, return the fried tofu sticks to the frying pan. Increase the heat to medium-high. As soon as the glaze begins to bubble vigorously, add the tofu sticks and toss them gently for about 30 seconds until they are coated and the glaze has slightly thickened. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the tofu lose its crispiness.
Step 4
Prepare the nutty coatings for your tofu sticks. On a wide plate or shallow dish, spread out the 2 Tbsp black bean powder, 2 Tbsp black sesame powder, and 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds in separate sections.
Step 5
Gently press the glazed tofu sticks into the coatings. Coat about two-thirds of each tofu stick, leaving the last 2 cm at each end bare. This creates the classic ‘Pepero’ stick appearance. Ensure the coatings adhere well to the tofu.
Step 6
Here are the tofu sticks coated with black sesame powder. The rich, nutty flavor of black sesame adds a sophisticated taste that is truly irresistible.
Step 7
Next, we have the tofu sticks coated in toasted sesame seeds. As you bite into these, the delightful crunch and intense nuttiness of the sesame seeds create a wonderfully satisfying experience.
Step 8
Finally, the tofu sticks coated in black bean powder. The mild, earthy nuttiness of the black bean powder offers a subtly delicious flavor, perfect for those who prefer a less intense taste. And there you have it – three delicious varieties of homemade Tofu Pepero!
