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Sweet Chili Tofu Balls

Sweet Chili Tofu Balls: Crunchy Vegan Bliss in 30 Minutes

Delight in these Sweet Chili Tofu Balls, a crunchy vegan treat bursting with sweet and spicy flavors, ready in just 20 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Other
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 352
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Sweet Chili Sauce Any preferred store-bought variety
  • 2 tablespoons Water Add as needed for desired thickness
  • 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste) Can be replaced with another chili paste
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Ketchup Any variety works well
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Can substitute with olive or vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Can be reduced or replaced with agave or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar White vinegar can be used as an alternative
For the Tofu Balls
  • 14 ounces Air Fried Tofu Balls Can be substituted with store-bought vegan meatballs
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is highly recommended
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Any cooking oil on hand for sautéing
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions/Scallions For topping
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Optional for garnish
For Serving
  • 4 servings Steamed Rice or Noodles Ideal accompaniment

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • large pan
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, water, gochujang, tomato ketchup, sesame oil, sugar, and rice vinegar. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
  2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until golden and aromatic.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed garlic, increase heat, and simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Add the air-fried tofu balls to the sauce and stir gently to coat. Add a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
  5. Cook the coated tofu balls in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes until hot and glistening.
  6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or toss with noodles.

Notes

Ensure tofu is crispy before adding to sauce to maintain texture. Adjust sweetness and spice levels based on preference.