Southern Baked Tofu
Southern Baked Tofu Recipe from Fiji | Vegetarian Food
Introduction
Southern Baked Tofu is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This recipe combines the crispy texture of cornmeal and corn flakes with the savory flavors of sage and celery salt to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to please.
History
Southern Baked Tofu is a modern twist on traditional Southern fried chicken. By using tofu instead of chicken, this recipe provides a healthier alternative that is just as tasty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) of extra-firm tofu
- 1 cup of cornmeal
- 1 stick of margarine
- nutritional yeast
- a pinch of salt
- sage
- celery salt
- corn flakes
- brown rice flour or garbanzo flour
How to prepare
- Cut the tofu into slices that are 0.25 inches thick.
- In a bowl, combine all the dry ingredients.
- Heat up 0.5 – 1 stick of margarine in a small skillet.
- Once the margarine is completely melted, dip the tofu into it, ensuring that all surfaces are coated.
- Coat the tofu with the dry breading, making sure to cover both sides.
- Place the breaded tofu on a lightly greased tray or cookie sheet.
- Bake for approximately 8 – 10 minutes, or until the tofu becomes crunchy.
Variations
- Add your favorite spices or seasonings to the breading mixture for a unique flavor.
- Use different types of tofu, such as silken or firm, for a different texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to press the tofu before slicing it to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispy texture.
- Use a non-stick cooking spray on the tray or cookie sheet to prevent the tofu from sticking.
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in your favorite sauce or seasoning before breading and baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southern Baked Tofu with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic Southern meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Use almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Substitute butter for margarine if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the tofu slices and breading mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Southern Baked Tofu on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Southern Baked Tofu with a side of coleslaw and sweet tea for a classic Southern meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Southern Baked Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Southern Baked Tofu contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Southern Baked Tofu contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Southern Baked Tofu contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Southern Baked Tofu contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Southern Baked Tofu is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin E.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.
Summary
Southern Baked Tofu is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in calories.
Summary
Southern Baked Tofu is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. With a crispy texture and savory flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Southern Baked Tofu. It was a hot summer day and I had just finished helping my grandmother tend to her garden. As a reward for my hard work, she handed me a piece of paper with the recipe written on it in her elegant cursive handwriting.
I had never heard of tofu before, let alone tasted it. But as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel intrigued. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and honey sounded like a delicious flavor profile, and I was eager to give it a try.
My grandmother must have noticed my interest because she smiled and said, "This recipe comes from a friend of mine who spent some time living in the South. She brought back a love for Southern cuisine and this tofu dish quickly became a favorite in our household."
I was fascinated by the idea of a dish that combined Southern and Asian flavors, and I knew I had to make it for myself. So, that evening, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen.
The first step was to press the tofu to remove excess moisture. I had never worked with tofu before, so this was a new experience for me. As I pressed down on the block of tofu, I marveled at its firm texture and how it held together so well.
Next, I cut the tofu into cubes and marinated them in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, honey, and a splash of vinegar. The smell of the marinade alone was enough to make my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.
After letting the tofu marinate for a few hours, I placed it on a baking sheet and popped it in the oven. As the tofu baked, the aroma of garlic and soy sauce filled my kitchen, and I knew I was in for a treat.
When the timer finally went off, I pulled the baking sheet out of the oven and was greeted by perfectly golden brown cubes of tofu. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste, and I was blown away by the savory-sweet flavor that exploded in my mouth.
I served the Southern Baked Tofu over a bed of steamed rice and garnished it with chopped green onions. The contrast of textures and flavors was a delight to my taste buds, and I knew I had stumbled upon a new favorite dish.
I couldn't wait to share the recipe with my family and friends, and they were just as impressed as I was. The Southern Baked Tofu quickly became a staple in our household, and I found myself making it time and time again.
As I sat down to enjoy a plate of the tofu dish with my grandmother, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn new recipes and expand my culinary horizons. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and discovering new dishes like Southern Baked Tofu only fueled my love for the art of food.
So, the next time you're looking for a unique and flavorful dish to try, I highly recommend giving this recipe a go. Who knows, it may just become a favorite in your household as well. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Brown Rice Flour Recipes | Chickpea Flour Recipes | Cornflake Crumb Recipes | Cornmeal Recipes | Extra-firm Tofu Recipes | Fijian Recipes | Fijian Vegetarian | Nutritional Yeast Recipes | Sage Recipes |