Tofu, a versatile plant-based protein, takes center stage in this delightful recipe for Crispy Barbecued Tofu Slices. Marinated in a tantalizing blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and spices, the tofu is then coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown, resulting in a symphony of flavors and textures. This delectable dish is not only a treat for vegetarians and vegans but also a healthier alternative to traditional barbecue, catering to a wider audience.
Accompanying the main recipe are three additional tofu-centric culinary creations. The first is a zesty and refreshing Vietnamese Tofu Salad, where marinated tofu is paired with a medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing. Next is the delectable Kung Pao Tofu, a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender tofu coated in a savory sauce made with peanuts, chili peppers, and aromatic spices. Last but not least, the mouthwatering Tofu Stir-Fry with Vegetables showcases the versatility of tofu in a quick and easy stir-fry, packed with colorful vegetables and a flavorful sauce.
Whether you're a seasoned tofu enthusiast or seeking new ways to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet, these recipes offer a delightful journey through the culinary possibilities of tofu. From the crispy barbecued slices to the vibrant Vietnamese salad, the savory Kung Pao dish, and the wholesome stir-fry, there's a recipe here to tantalize every palate and cater to various dietary preferences. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the goodness of tofu!
THE BEST CRISPY TOFU
The key to getting tofu nice and crispy is to first remove excess moisture. We wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy pan on top of it to press out as much water as possible. When searing the tofu, resist the urge to move it around. Instead, allow it to form a crust before flipping, and then again let it cook undisturbed on the other side until browned.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Time 25m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel and place on top of a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet. Place a heavy pan on top of the tofu and let it sit for 5 minutes to release as much moisture as possible. Unwrap the tofu and slice lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick by 1 1/2-inch-wide planks.
- Whisk the soy sauce, lime juice, agave syrup, scallion whites and sriracha together in a small bowl and set aside. Mix the panko, sesame seeds, cornstarch, garlic salt, onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and a few grinds of pepper in a pie dish or shallow bowl. Press the tofu planks into the panko mixture to coat on all sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook, undisturbed, until deep golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Flip the tofu with a metal spatula and continue cooking undisturbed until a deep golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes more. Transfer to a platter.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the soy-sauce mixture to the pan. Cook until bubbling and slightly thicker, 1 to 2 minutes. Pour the sauce over the tofu planks and sprinkle with the scallion greens.
GRILLED TOFU
Pouring hot marinade over tofu slices encourages faster absorption of flavors, eliminating the need to marinate overnight. In a pinch, this method yields tasty results in three hours, but the recommended six hours deliver a much more complex, richer flavored tofu. Grilled, it makes a versatile side dish and is delicious warm or at room temperature. Pair it with steamed rice and a simple green salad, or turn the tofu into satisfying vegetarian sandwiches by tucking it into pita bread with lettuce and avocado.
Provided by Kay Chun
Categories dinner, main course
Time 6h20m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Arrange sliced tofu in a single layer on a paper towel-lined plate. Press top with more paper towels to remove excess water. Arrange tofu in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, or any shallow dish that can hold the tofu in one layer.
- In a small saucepan, combine oil, garlic and ginger over medium; bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant, 2 minutes. Add soy sauce, sugar, pepper and 1/4 cup water, and cook, stirring to dissolve the sugar, about 2 minutes.
- Pour hot marinade over tofu. Gently turn tofu slices to evenly coat, then cover dish tightly with plastic wrap to seal in heat. Refrigerate for 6 hours (or up to 8 hours), flipping tofu slices halfway through.
- Heat grill to medium and grease grates well (or heat a cast-iron grill pan over medium and lightly grease). Grill tofu over direct heat until golden and caramelized, about 3 minutes per side.
- Meanwhile, transfer marinade to a small saucepan over medium and warm through, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in scallions.
- Transfer tofu to a serving plate and spoon over the sauce. Serve warm.
Tips:
- Choose the right tofu: For this recipe, use extra-firm or super-firm tofu. This type of tofu holds its shape better and crisps up nicely when cooked.
- Press the tofu: Pressing the tofu removes excess water and helps it to absorb the marinade more easily. To press the tofu, wrap it in a few layers of paper towels and place it on a plate or cutting board. Place another plate or cutting board on top and weigh it down with something heavy, such as a can of beans or a heavy skillet. Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour.
- Use a flavorful marinade: The marinade is what gives the tofu its flavor, so make sure to use a marinade that you enjoy. This recipe uses a simple marinade made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, but you can feel free to experiment with other flavors. For example, you could add a teaspoon of chili paste or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade.
- Cook the tofu over medium heat: Cooking the tofu over medium heat helps it to crisp up without burning. If you cook the tofu over too high heat, it will burn on the outside and be raw on the inside.
- Serve the tofu hot: Crispy barbequed tofu is best served hot. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Conclusion:
Crispy barbequed tofu is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It's a great option for vegetarians and vegans, and it's also a healthy and affordable meal. With a little planning, you can easily make crispy barbequed tofu at home. So next time you're looking for a tasty and healthy meal, give this recipe a try!
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