Broiled Tofu

Broiled Tofu Recipe from Japan | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Broiled tofu is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil with the heat of hot miso paste to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Tofu has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, with records of its consumption dating back to ancient China. Broiling tofu is a modern twist on this traditional ingredient, adding a crispy texture and smoky flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

2 (0.75 lb (340 g)) blocks of firm tofu, drained
vegetable oil
0.25 cup of soy sauce
1.5 tsp of sesame oil
1 tbsp of splenda sugar substitute
1 minced garlic clove
1 tbsp of toasted sesame seeds
1 tbsp of Asian hot red bean paste or miso
2 thinly sliced green onions

How to prepare

Preheat the broiler.
Cut the tofu into 0.5-inch slices.
Lightly brush a rimmed baking sheet(s) with vegetable oil, place the tofu in a single layer on the sheet(s), and lightly brush the top with oil.
Broil the tofu, as close to the heat as possible, until it is lightly browned.
Turn the tofu over and brown it on the other side.
Combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, Splenda, garlic, sesame seeds, and hot bean paste.
Heat the soy mixture to a boil in a large pan over medium heat.
Gently add the tofu in a single layer.
Turn down the heat to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, spooning the mixture over the top of the tofu.
Sprinkle with the green onions and serve.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to the tofu mixture for added texture and flavor.
Use different marinades such as teriyaki sauce or sweet chili sauce for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the tofu well before slicing it to ensure a firm texture.

- Broil the tofu as close to the heat source as possible to achieve a crispy exterior.

- Be careful not to overcook the tofu, as it can become tough and rubbery.

- Adjust the amount of hot miso paste to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve broiled tofu with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling tofu gives it a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. This cooking method is quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute agave nectar or maple syrup for the sugar substitute for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the tofu in the soy mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to broil. This allows the flavors to develop and makes for a quicker cooking process.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the broiled tofu slices on a platter and drizzle with extra soy sauce and sesame oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Broiled tofu pairs well with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a crisp cucumber salad. Serve with a glass of chilled green tea or sake for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover broiled tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of broiled tofu contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of broiled tofu contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of broiled tofu contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of broiled tofu contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu is a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame, which are common allergens. Please be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Broiled tofu is a low-carb, high-protein dish that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying option for vegetarians and vegans.

Summary

Broiled tofu is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, this dish is sure to become a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Enjoy the savory flavors of soy sauce, sesame oil, and hot miso paste in this delicious and satisfying recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for tea. Margaret was always an adventurous cook, and she loved to experiment with new ingredients and flavors. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping our tea and catching up on each other’s lives, Margaret suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry.

She emerged a few moments later with a block of tofu in her hand. “Have you ever tried tofu, dear?” she asked me with a twinkle in her eye. I must admit, I had never given tofu much thought before. It seemed like such a foreign and mysterious ingredient to me. But Margaret was determined to change that.

She explained to me that tofu is a versatile and nutritious protein source, made from soybeans. She told me that it could be prepared in a variety of ways, and that she had a delicious recipe for broiled tofu that she wanted to share with me. I was intrigued and eager to learn more.

Margaret guided me through the process of preparing the tofu. First, we pressed the block of tofu between two plates to remove excess water. This step was important, she explained, as it would help the tofu absorb the flavors of the marinade better. Next, we sliced the tofu into thick slabs and marinated them in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.

As the tofu soaked up the savory marinade, Margaret preheated her oven broiler. She carefully placed the marinated tofu slabs on a baking sheet and slid them under the broiler. The tofu sizzled and browned under the intense heat, filling the kitchen with a delicious aroma.

After a few minutes, Margaret pulled the broiled tofu out of the oven and plated it with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and a drizzle of extra marinade. I couldn’t believe how simple and yet how flavorful the dish was. The tofu was tender and slightly crispy on the outside, with a rich umami flavor that danced on my taste buds.

Margaret and I enjoyed our broiled tofu with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables. It was a meal that was both comforting and satisfying, and I knew that I had discovered a new favorite recipe. I thanked Margaret profusely for introducing me to the wonderful world of tofu and promised to make it a regular part of my cooking repertoire.

Since that day, broiled tofu has become a staple in my kitchen. I have experimented with different marinades and seasonings, making the dish my own. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of this simple yet delicious dish.

Each time I make broiled tofu, I am reminded of that sunny afternoon in Margaret’s kitchen, where I learned to embrace a new ingredient and expand my culinary horizons. I am grateful for the friendships that have enriched my life and the recipes that have filled my home with love and flavor.

So, the next time you find yourself in search of a new and exciting dish to try, I urge you to give broiled tofu a chance. You may just discover a new favorite recipe, as I did all those years ago. Happy cooking!