Crispy fried tofu with labneh, preserved lemon and coriander relish

This dish combines the creamy labneh, crispy tofu, fresh relish, and tangy za’atar dressing for a delightful and flavorful experience.

By Matt Tebbutt
From Saturday Kitchen

Ingredients

For the Labneh

• Greek-style yoghurt: 250g (9oz)
• Salt: ¼ tsp

For the Crispy Fried Tofu

• Extra-firm tofu: 250g (9oz) block
• Vegetable oil: for deep frying
• Cornflour: 150g (5½oz)
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp

For the Coriander Relish

• Fresh coriander: 1 bunch, chopped
• Fresh mint: 1 bunch, chopped
• Red onion: ½, finely chopped
• Thai green chilli: 1, chopped
• Garlic cloves: 3, crushed
• Coriander seeds: ½ tbsp
• Olive oil: 2–3 tbsp

For the Za’atar Dressing

• Preserved lemons: 4, chopped
• Za’atar: 1 heaped tsp
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Muscatel vinegar: 25ml (1 fl oz)
• Saffron: pinch

Method

Prepare the Labneh

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the Greek-style yoghurt and salt.
2. Drain the Yoghurt: Place a sieve over a clean bowl and line it with a piece of muslin cloth. Add the yoghurt mixture to the center of the cloth and tie up the ends. Allow it to drain in the fridge overnight.

Prepare the Crispy Fried Tofu

1. Press the Tofu: Wrap the block of extra-firm tofu in a cloth and weigh it down with a few plates. Place it in the fridge for 2 hours to press out excess moisture.
2. Preheat Oil: When ready to cook, preheat vegetable oil in a deep-fat fryer to 180°C (356°F). (CAUTION: Hot oil can be dangerous. Do not leave unattended.)
3. Prepare Coating: In a bowl, mix together the cornflour, black pepper, and salt.
4. Cut and Coat Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 2cm (1in) cubes. Coat the tofu cubes in the cornflour mixture.
5. Deep Fry Tofu: Deep fry the coated tofu cubes for a few minutes until they are crisp and golden brown.

Prepare the Coriander Relish

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped coriander, chopped mint, finely chopped red onion, chopped Thai green chilli, crushed garlic, coriander seeds, and olive oil. Mix well.

Prepare the Za’atar Dressing

1. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the chopped preserved lemons, za’atar, olive oil, muscatel vinegar, and a pinch of saffron until well combined.

Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Place the crispy fried tofu onto a serving plate. Serve alongside the drained labneh and coriander relish.
2. Drizzle with Dressing: Drizzle the za’atar dressing over the tofu and relish.