As an avid cook and someone who has experimented with tofu in various recipes, I can say that drying tofu after marinating is indeed an important step. When tofu is marinated, it absorbs the flavors of the marinade, but it also absorbs some of the liquid from the marinade. This excess liquid can affect the texture and overall outcome of the dish.
To start, let me explain why marinating tofu is beneficial. Tofu, on its own, can be quite bland and lacks flavor. Marinating tofu allows it to soak up the flavors of the marinade, making it more flavorful and enjoyable to eat. However, the tofu can become waterlogged during the marinating process, which can lead to difficulties in achieving a crispy and evenly coated texture when frying.
To address this issue, it is essential to remove the excess marinade from the tofu before frying. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using paper towels. After the tofu has finished marinating, gently remove it from the marinade and place it on a clean surface lined with paper towels. Gently press down on the tofu with more paper towels to absorb any excess liquid. This helps to remove the excess moisture from the tofu, allowing for a better frying experience.
By drying the tofu, you not only ensure a more even coating when frying but also prevent oil splatter. When tofu is wet, the moisture can cause the oil to splatter and potentially lead to burns or messy stovetops. Drying the tofu helps to reduce this risk, making the frying process safer and cleaner.
I remember a personal experience when I forgot to dry the tofu after marinating it for a stir-fry dish. As soon as I placed the tofu in the hot oil, it splattered all over the stovetop and onto my hands. It was quite a mess, and the tofu didn't have the crispy texture I was hoping for. Since then, I've always made sure to dry the tofu thoroughly before frying, and it has made a noticeable difference in the final results.
Drying tofu after marinating is an essential step to ensure a crispy texture and even coating when frying. Using paper towels to remove the excess marinade helps to eliminate excess moisture and prevent oil splatter. Based on personal experiences and culinary experiments, I highly recommend taking the time to dry the tofu before frying for the best results.