Savory Baked Tofu
Savory Baked Tofu Recipe with Tomato Paste and Vegetarian Beef Stock
Introduction
Savory Baked Tofu is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The tofu is marinated in a flavorful mixture of tomato paste, vegetarian beef stock, red wine vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and scallions. It is then baked to perfection and topped with a savory sauce made with nutritional yeast, oregano, and cornstarch. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!
History
Tofu has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, but it has gained popularity in Western countries in recent years as a versatile and healthy meat alternative. Baked tofu dishes have become increasingly popular as people look for ways to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diets. This recipe puts a savory twist on traditional baked tofu, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal option.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetarian beef stock
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp vegetarian worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp tamari soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 x 12 oz (340 g) package firm tofu, cubed
Sauce
- 0.25 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
How to prepare
Marinade
- Combine tomato paste and stock in a small bowl.
- Add vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, tamari, garlic, and scallions, stirring after each addition.
- Set aside.
- Arrange tofu in a single layer in a non-reactive baking dish.
- Cover with the marinade and refrigerate for 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Bake the tofu in a covered baking dish for 30 minutes.
- Pour the marinade into a saucepan and brown the tofu under the broiler.
Sauce
- Heat the marinade for 2 minutes.
- Add yeast and oregano.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water, and add it to the marinade mixture.
- Cook the sauce for 3 minutes and serve it spooned over the tofu.
Variations
- Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms, to the marinade for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade and sauce to create unique flavor combinations.
- For a spicy kick, add some sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade or sauce.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to press the tofu before marinating it to remove excess moisture and allow it to absorb the flavors of the marinade better.
- For a crispier texture, you can bake the tofu uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to customize the marinade and sauce to suit your taste preferences by adding herbs, spices, or other seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Savory Baked Tofu over rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced and satisfying dish.
Cooking Techniques
Baking, marinating, broiling
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use regular beef stock instead of vegetarian beef stock if you are not vegetarian.
- If you don't have nutritional yeast, you can substitute it with grated Parmesan cheese or omit it altogether.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the tofu in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the tofu to absorb the flavors of the marinade more thoroughly.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Savory Baked Tofu with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top for added texture.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the Savory Baked Tofu with a side of steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. A glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement this dish nicely.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of the Savory Baked Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the tofu in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Savory Baked Tofu contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Savory Baked Tofu contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Savory Baked Tofu contains approximately 8 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Savory Baked Tofu contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Tofu is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are essential minerals for bone health and overall well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy and gluten (from the Worcestershire sauce). It may not be suitable for individuals with soy or gluten allergies.
Summary
Savory Baked Tofu is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates and fats. It is a great option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet.
Summary
Savory Baked Tofu is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a savory marinade and a tasty sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you are a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, this recipe is a great option for a satisfying and healthy meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Savory Baked Tofu. It was a sunny day in the bustling streets of Chinatown. I was wandering through the vibrant market stalls, taking in the sights and sounds of the colorful displays of fresh produce and fragrant spices. As I passed by a small, unassuming vendor, a delicious aroma caught my attention. I followed my nose to a simple stall where an elderly woman was skillfully preparing a batch of tofu that looked absolutely mouth-watering.
Intrigued, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation. She told me that the secret to her delicious tofu was in the marinade she used, a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complemented the subtle flavors of the tofu. She generously shared her recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to try it out in my own kitchen.
Back at home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work. I carefully pressed the tofu to remove excess moisture, then sliced it into thick slabs. I whisked together the marinade, taking care to adjust the flavors to my liking. As I poured the fragrant mixture over the tofu, I knew that this dish was going to be something special.
After letting the tofu marinate for a few hours, I preheated the oven and arranged the slices on a baking sheet. The tofu sizzled and caramelized in the heat, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste, and I was blown away by the depth of flavor and tender texture of the tofu.
When the tofu was finally done baking, I plated it up and served it alongside a simple stir-fry of crisp vegetables and steamed rice. My family eagerly dug in, and their eyes lit up with delight as they savored each bite of the savory baked tofu. It was a hit, and soon became a regular feature on our dinner table.
Over the years, I've continued to experiment with the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes and those of my loved ones. I've added a touch of spice with chili flakes, a squeeze of lime for brightness, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch. Each variation has been met with rave reviews, and I've come to cherish the versatility of this simple yet satisfying dish.
I've shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all been amazed by the delicious results. Some have even gone on to put their own spin on the recipe, adding their own unique touches and creating new variations that have become family favorites.
As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this recipe for Savory Baked Tofu, I am grateful for the chance encounter with that kind-hearted vendor in Chinatown. Her generosity and expertise have enriched my culinary repertoire and brought joy to countless meals shared with loved ones. I will always treasure the memory of that sunny day and the delicious discovery that followed.
Categories
| Firm Tofu Recipes | Nutritional Yeast Recipes | Red Wine Vinegar Recipes | Tomato Paste Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |