Tofu Fries With Gingered Ketchup

1. 1

   Cut tofu into batons about 1/2 in. thick and 3 in. long. Arrange on a non-terry dish towel or triple layer of paper towels set on a plate. Let drain 10 minutes, then blot dry.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, grate ginger with a Microplane, then press through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Measure 1 tsp. juice into a small serving bowl and stir in ketchup.

3. 3

   Heat 1 in. oil in a large wok or wide, deep pot over high heat and insert a deep-fat thermometer. Meanwhile, blot moisture from tofu. When thermometer registers 325u00b0, dredge tofu in flour to coat well. Shake off excess and set on a plate until oil reaches 360u00b0.

4. 4

   Fry tofu 6 or 7 pieces at a time, gently stirring with chopsticks or a slotted spoon so they fry evenly and without sticking, 1 minute, or until crisp (they will still be white; it's fine if they get a little golden, but they'll burst if cooked too long). Return heat to 360u00b0 between batches and drain fries on paper towels. If any fries have softened, refry 15 seconds. Sprinkle with salt and serve immediately, with gingered ketchup.

5. 5

   Nutritional analysis is per fry.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.