How to Make Inari Tofu Pockets
Inari tofu pockets, also known as “tofu pockets” or “aburaage,” are a popular Japanese snack that combines the delicate flavor of tofu with the savory and crispy texture of fried tofu skin. These pockets are often filled with a variety of ingredients, such as rice, pickled vegetables, or meat, and are perfect for enjoying as a snack or as a side dish. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making inari tofu pockets at home, so you can enjoy this delicious treat whenever you want.
Ingredients
Before you start making inari tofu pockets, gather the following ingredients:
– 10 pieces of inari tofu
– 2 cups of sushi rice
– 1 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 1 tablespoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of mirin
– 1/4 cup of water
– Optional fillings: pickled vegetables, cooked meat, or seafood
Preparation
1. Begin by preparing the sushi rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook it according to the package instructions, adding the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to the water.
2. While the rice is cooking, prepare the filling. You can use pickled vegetables, cooked meat, or seafood, depending on your preference. If you’re using pickled vegetables, make sure they are well-drained before adding them to the tofu pockets.
3. Once the rice is cooked, spread it out on a flat surface to cool. This will make it easier to work with when filling the tofu pockets.
Assembling the Inari Tofu Pockets
1. Cut each inari tofu piece in half lengthwise, creating two pockets.
2. Take a small amount of the cooled sushi rice and press it into the bottom of one tofu pocket. Add your chosen filling on top of the rice, then place the other tofu pocket on top, pressing it gently to seal.
3. Repeat this process for all the tofu pockets, making sure to fill each one with rice and your desired filling.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, and water to create a dipping sauce for the inari tofu pockets.
Cooking the Inari Tofu Pockets
1. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, then place the tofu pockets in the pan.
2. Cook the tofu pockets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Once cooked, remove the tofu pockets from the pan and let them cool slightly before serving.
4. Serve the inari tofu pockets with the dipping sauce on the side, and enjoy!
Now that you know how to make inari tofu pockets, you can easily create this delicious snack at home. Experiment with different fillings and enjoy the versatility of this tasty treat!
