Spicy Mexican Tofu

Spicy Mexican Tofu Recipe: A Flavorful Dish with Extra-Firm Tofu, Tomatoes, and Kidney Beans

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy Mexican Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the heat of chili powder with the creaminess of tofu. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy spicy food and are looking for a plant-based protein option.

History

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mexican cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. By incorporating tofu as the main protein source, this dish offers a unique twist on classic Mexican dishes.

Ingredients

18 oz (510 g) of extra-firm tofu, cut into small cubes
1 cup of chopped onion
2.5 cups of undrained canned stewed tomatoes
1.25 cups of canned kidney beans
2.67 tsp of olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp of chili powder
parmesan cheese

How to prepare

In a saucepan, sauté onions and garlic cloves in olive oil until they become soft. Then, add tomatoes and chili powder and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil vigorously, uncovered, and stir it often until it thickens, which should take about 8 minutes.
Next, stir in the tofu. Add kidney beans and heat the mixture through. Finally, serve the dish sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Substitute black beans or pinto beans for kidney beans.
Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Top with sliced jalapenos or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use extra-firm tofu for this recipe to ensure that it holds its shape when cooked.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.

- For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spicy Mexican Tofu over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.

- Boil the tomato mixture until it thickens to ensure a rich and flavorful sauce.

- Heat the tofu and beans through before serving to ensure they are warm.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use firm tofu if extra-firm tofu is not available.

- Substitute vegetable broth for olive oil for a lower-fat option.

- Use vegan Parmesan cheese to make this dish dairy-free.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Spicy Mexican Tofu in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh cilantro. Pair with a side of Mexican rice or a green salad for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 9g

- Sugars: 7g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 21g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 20% DV

- Iron: 25% DV

Alergens

Contains soy and dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious and satisfying meal option for vegetarians and vegans.

Summary

Spicy Mexican Tofu is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. With a balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a satisfying meal option for those looking to add more plant-based recipes to their diet.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spicy Mexican Tofu. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria had always been a wonderful cook, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her.

As we chatted over cups of steaming hot coffee, Maria suddenly disappeared into her pantry and emerged with a block of tofu. She smiled mischievously and said, "I have a special recipe to share with you today. You're going to love it!"

I watched in fascination as Maria chopped up the tofu into bite-sized pieces and marinated them in a mixture of lime juice, cumin, chili powder, and garlic. The aroma that wafted through the air was enough to make my mouth water.

As Maria cooked the tofu in a hot skillet, she added in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and jalapenos. The colors and flavors were vibrant and enticing, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

When Maria plated the Spicy Mexican Tofu and garnished it with fresh cilantro and a dollop of creamy avocado, I knew I was about to experience something truly special. And when I took that first bite, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth.

The tangy lime juice, the smoky cumin, the fiery chili powder, and the creamy avocado all worked together in perfect harmony to create a dish that was nothing short of spectacular. I couldn't believe that tofu could taste so delicious!

As I savored each mouthful, Maria regaled me with the story of how she had learned to make this recipe. She told me that she had first discovered it during a trip to Mexico many years ago.

Maria had been wandering through a bustling market in a small village when she came across a humble food stall run by an elderly woman. The woman was cooking up a storm, and the tantalizing smells drew Maria in like a magnet.

Curious, Maria struck up a conversation with the woman and soon learned that she was a renowned cook in the village, known for her inventive and delicious vegan dishes. The woman generously shared her recipe for Spicy Mexican Tofu with Maria, and Maria had been making it ever since.

As I listened to Maria's story, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration for the kind-hearted woman who had passed down this incredible recipe. It was a testament to the power of food to connect people across cultures and generations.

After that day, Spicy Mexican Tofu became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family gatherings and potluck parties, and it never failed to impress. People would always ask for the recipe, and I would tell them the story of how I had learned to make it from my dear friend Maria.

To this day, whenever I cook up a batch of Spicy Mexican Tofu, I think of Maria and the elderly woman in the Mexican village. I am grateful for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life and brought me closer to the people I love.

And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Spicy Mexican Tofu, I am reminded of the magic of cooking – how a simple recipe can transport you to far-off places and create memories that last a lifetime. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body; it's also about nourishing the soul. And for that, I am eternally grateful.