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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs: In another bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with dried oregano and thyme.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare Zesty Herb Infusion: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, basil, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to blend flavors.
- 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
