Savory Crispy Fried False with Zesty Herb Infusion Recipe

Introduction

This Savory Crispy Fried False recipe offers a delightful crunch paired with a zesty herb infusion that brightens every bite. Perfect as a snack or a main dish, it’s a versatile meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of false (or a similar protein like tofu or tempeh)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a teaspoon of vinegar)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the false by pressing tofu or tempeh to remove excess water, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with dried oregano and thyme.
4. Step 4: Coat each piece of false first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally cover with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
6. Step 6: Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Step 7: Combine parsley, basil, and lemon juice in a small bowl to make the zesty herb infusion.
8. Step 8: Serve the fried false hot, drizzled with the zesty herb infusion for a fresh and flavorful finish.

Tips & Variations

• Press tofu thoroughly to prevent sogginess and achieve a crispier texture.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mix for a spicy kick.
• Substitute fresh herbs with dried if needed, adjusting quantities to taste.

Storage

Store leftover fried false in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness rather than microwaving, which can make it soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake instead of fry the false?

Yes, you can bake the breaded pieces at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, but frying will give a crispier texture.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

Simply mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.

Savory Crispy Fried False with Zesty Herb Infusion Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 74 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy a deliciously crispy and savory fried False, perfect as a delightful snack or appetizer. Coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture, then fried to golden perfection, it’s topped with a fresh and zesty herb infusion made from parsley, basil, and lemon juice for an aromatic finish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the False Coating

• 1 pound of false (or a similar protein like tofu or tempeh)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Zesty Herb Infusion

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Additional Ingredients

• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a teaspoon of vinegar)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the False: Begin by pressing the false if using tofu or tempeh, to remove excess water, then cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Create Flour Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
3. Prepare Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs: In another bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with dried oregano and thyme.
4. Coat the False: Dip each piece of false first in the seasoned flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they adhere well.
5. Heat Oil and Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded false pieces into the hot oil without overcrowding to maintain temperature.
6. Fry Until Golden: Cook the false in batches, frying each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
7. Prepare Zesty Herb Infusion: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, basil, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to blend flavors.
8. Serve: Arrange the crispy fried false on a serving platter and drizzle generously with the zesty herb infusion for a fresh, flavorful finish.

Notes

• You can substitute the false with tofu or tempeh if desired.
• Pressing tofu or tempeh beforehand helps to achieve a crispier texture.
• Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to ensure even frying and avoid greasy results.
• Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispness.
• The zesty herb infusion adds a fresh and bright flavor that balances the savory fried protein.
• Buttermilk or milk with vinegar helps tenderize the pieces if used as a marinade before coating.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: fried false, crispy fried tofu, savory fried tempeh, herb infused fried snack, zesty herb dip, vegetarian appetizer