Crispy Fried Onions

Fried onions are used for garnishing various food recipes like biryani, soups and salads. They can be pan fried or deep fried.

Ingredients

• Onions - 2
• Corn flour - 1 tbsp
• Oil - for deep frying

Method

1. Peel the onions and cut them into thin slices lengthwise.
2. Sprinkle corn flour on the slices and lightly toss them to coat.
3. Heat oil in a pan for deep frying.
4. Reduce the flame to medium. Add few onion slices and deep fry until golden brown and crisp.
5. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb oil.
6. Repeat the process until all onions are fried.

Tips

 - Corn flour is optional. In that case, pat dry onions well with kitchen towel to absorb the moisture. But if you want crispy ones corn flour is a must.

 - Ensure the oil is not very hot and cook in medium flame to cook thoroughly.

 - Do not overcrowd the slices and fry in small batches.

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Preparation of Tofu

People have a very negative opinion of tofu, even if they have never tried. Only the bad preparation ruins the dish. Tofu is highly nutritious and tastes good if prepared properly. Here are the easy ways to prepare tofu so that you can make it delicious.

1. Types of tofu
     There are many types but the most common types are silken, soft, firm and extra-firm. Choose soft or silken tofu for any dish that needs a soft and creamy texture and used in desserts, cakes, sauces and dressings. Choose firm or extra-firm for any dish where the tofu needs to hold its shape like stir-fries and manchurian dishes.

2. Purchase and Storage of Tofu
     The fresher the better. Purchase with later expiry date. Buy organic tofu if possible, as soybean crops are heavily treated with pesticides. Once bought, open it and store in an airtight container filled with water covering the tofu block. Change the water daily.

3. Press tofu
     Pressing tofu is the most important step. It removes excess moisture, so that more flavor can be absorbed while cooking. Firm or Extra-firm tofu only can be pressed. It soaks up marinade better and holds together while cooking. Cut the tofu width wise into 2 blocks. Place the tofu blocks between two kitchen towels on a tray and place a cutting board on the top. Then place a weight of around 4 to 5 kgs (preferably books, as it distributes the weight evenly). Change the towels after 15 minutes and leave it for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hrs.

4. Marinate tofu
     When marinated, tofu absorbs the flavor and tastes better. If you are marinating for less than an hour, it can be done at room temperature. For longer periods, marinate in an air tight container in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.

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