Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie

Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie Recipe from Taiwan

Region / culture: Taiwan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie is a delicious and decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and almonds with the creamy texture of tofu. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pies, as it is made with tofu instead of heavy cream or butter.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic chocolate pie, incorporating tofu as a healthier alternative to traditional dairy products. Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, and in this recipe, it adds a creamy texture to the pie filling.

Ingredients

0.75 cup slivered almonds
1 lb (454 g) firm, silken tofu
1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp almond extract
1 x nine inch graham cracker pie crust

Graham cracker pie crust

2 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 16 whole crackers)
6 tbsp soy margarine, slightly softened (I use regular Pareve margarine)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and place in the oven.
Toast them for 5 to 10 minutes, until they lightly color, shaking the pan and carefully watching to prevent burning.
Set aside to cool.
In a food processor or blender, puree the tofu on high speed until smooth.
Add the brown sugar and blend until thoroughly combined.
Add the cocoa and vanilla and continue blending until the mixture is smooth.
Scrape down the sides of the blender if necessary.
Pour the mixture into the crust and sprinkle the almond slivers evenly on top.
Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.

Graham cracker pie crust

Process the graham crackers in a food processor until finely ground.
Add the margarine and pulse until the mixture reaches the consistency of coarse crumbs.
Pat the mixture into a thick layer on the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan.

Variations

Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the filling for a mocha flavor.
Top the pie with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the almonds before adding them to the pie for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

- Be sure to blend the tofu mixture until smooth to ensure a creamy and silky filling.

- Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the almonds adds a depth of flavor to the pie.

- Blending the tofu mixture until smooth ensures a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of nuts in places of almonds, such as walnuts or pecans.

- If you don't have tofu, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pie filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with additional toasted almonds or a dusting of cocoa powder for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a perfect dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let the pie come to room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This pie is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium due to the tofu and almonds.

Alergens

This recipe contains almonds and soy (tofu), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie is a nutritious dessert option that is high in protein and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Summary

Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie is a delicious and healthy dessert option that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its creamy tofu filling and crunchy almond topping, this pie is a perfect treat for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Emma in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Emma was known for her delicious and inventive cooking, and I always looked forward to our culinary adventures together.

On this particular day, Emma greeted me with a twinkle in her eye and a mischievous smile on her face. "I have a special treat for you today, my dear friend," she said, leading me to the kitchen. As we entered, the sweet scent of chocolate and almonds filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Emma reached into her cupboard and pulled out a block of tofu, a bag of almonds, and a bar of dark chocolate. My curiosity piqued, I watched as she began to work her culinary magic, blending the tofu, melting the chocolate, and toasting the almonds to perfection.

As she worked, Emma told me the story behind this unique recipe. She had learned it years ago from a traveling chef who had passed through her village. Intrigued by the idea of incorporating tofu into a dessert, Emma had begged the chef to teach her the recipe, and she had been making it ever since.

I was amazed by Emma's creativity and ingenuity in the kitchen. The idea of using tofu in a dessert was completely new to me, but as I watched her effortlessly combine the ingredients, I knew that I had to try it for myself.

Once the pie was assembled and chilling in the fridge, Emma poured us each a cup of tea and we sat down to enjoy our creation. The first bite was pure bliss – the rich, creamy chocolate filling paired perfectly with the crunchy almonds and the subtle hint of tofu added a velvety texture that I had never experienced before.

As we savored each bite, Emma and I chatted and laughed, sharing stories and memories of our lives. It was moments like these that I cherished the most – good food, good company, and a sense of joy and contentment that could only be found in the simple pleasures of life.

When it was time for me to leave, Emma handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe for the Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie. "I know how much you love to cook, my dear," she said, "and I thought you might enjoy making this for your family and friends."

I hugged Emma tightly, feeling grateful for her friendship and the gift of this delicious recipe. As I drove home, the sun setting over the horizon, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making the Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie for my loved ones.

Over the years, I have made this pie countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have shared it with friends, family, and neighbors, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

The Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie has become a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of that special day with Emma and the joy of discovering something new and exciting in the world of cooking.

As I sit here now, penning down this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. The taste of chocolate and almonds, the warmth of Emma's kitchen, the laughter and camaraderie we shared – all of it wrapped up in a simple recipe that has brought so much joy into my life.

And so, as I finish writing these words, I can only hope that my grandchildren will one day experience the same sense of wonder and delight that I did when I first discovered the Chocolate Tofu Almond Pie. And who knows, perhaps they will add their own twist to the recipe and create new memories of their own.