Texas Tofu

Texas Tofu Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Make Meal from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Texas Tofu is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of baked beans, crispy tofu, and melted cheese on top of thick slices of sourdough bread. This recipe is perfect for a filling and satisfying meal that is sure to please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

History

Texas Tofu is a modern twist on traditional Tex-Mex cuisine, combining classic flavors with a plant-based protein source. This dish is a great example of how tofu can be used in creative and delicious ways to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

4 slices of sourdough bread, 1 inch thick
3 cups of vegetarian-style baked beans
4 tbsp of vegetable oil for frying
1 onion, diced
2 tsp of ground cumin
2 tsp of chili powder
0.5 tsp of onion powder
2 tbsp of cornstarch
1 lb (454 g) of firm or extra-firm tofu, cut into large cubes
4 tbsp of soy “bacon” bits
8 oz (227 g) of shredded soy cheese, preferably a mixture of cheddar and monterey jack
0.5 cup of cilantro leaves for garnish

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Arrange thick slices of bread in a large baking dish and set them aside.
2. Place the beans in a large saucepan and heat them over medium heat until warmed through completely. Remove them from heat and set them aside.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until golden, for about 5 minutes. Remove the onion from heat and set it aside.
4. Meanwhile, combine cumin, chili powder, onion powder, and cornstarch in a large bowl, mixing well to combine. Place cubed tofu in a separate bowl and dust each side with the mixture. Add the remaining oil to the skillet and heat it over medium heat. Sauté the tofu cubes on all sides until crispy, for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove them from heat and place them in a bowl with the onion.
5. Spoon the beans over the bread slices in equal portions and sprinkle 'Bacon' bits onto the beans. Top with tofu and onions, and sprinkle each portion with grated cheese.
6. Bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Remove them from the oven and garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to press the tofu before cooking to remove excess moisture and help it crisp up nicely.

- Dusting the tofu with a mixture of spices and cornstarch before cooking adds extra flavor and helps create a crispy coating.

- Be sure to sauté the tofu until it is golden and crispy on all sides for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Texas Tofu is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pressing the tofu before cooking helps it absorb more flavor and creates a firmer texture.

- Sautéing the tofu until crispy adds a delicious crunch to the dish.

- Baking the assembled Texas Tofu in the oven melts the cheese and helps all the flavors meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sourdough bread, you can use any thick, crusty bread of your choice.

- You can use any type of vegetarian-style baked beans in this recipe.

- Feel free to substitute the monterey jack cheese with your favorite melting cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the components of Texas Tofu ahead of time and assemble and bake it just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Texas Tofu on a large platter garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Texas Tofu pairs well with a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or a side of cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Texas 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 Texas Tofu contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Texas Tofu contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Texas Tofu contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Texas Tofu contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Texas Tofu is a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Texas Tofu is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Texas Tofu is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of baked beans, crispy tofu, and melted cheese on top of thick slices of sourdough bread. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Texas Tofu. It was a hot summer day in San Antonio, and I had been invited to a friend's barbecue. As usual, I offered to bring a dish, but this time I wanted to try something new and exciting.

As I walked into my friend's backyard, I was immediately greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of grilled meats and vegetables. The sizzle of the barbecue and the laughter of friends filled the air, creating a joyful atmosphere.

I spotted my friend, Maria, who was busy grilling up some steaks and burgers. She waved me over and handed me a cold drink before telling me about a new recipe she had discovered – Texas Tofu.

Maria explained that she had come across the recipe while browsing through a Texas cookbook at a local bookstore. Intrigued by the unique combination of flavors, she decided to give it a try and had been hooked ever since.

The recipe called for marinating tofu in a zesty blend of spices and seasonings, then grilling it to perfection. The result was a smoky, savory dish that was sure to impress even the most skeptical meat-eaters.

I was immediately intrigued and asked Maria if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. With a smile, she handed me a piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions scribbled on it. I could hardly wait to get home and give it a try.

That evening, I gathered all the ingredients and got to work. I marinated the tofu in a rich blend of soy sauce, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and a touch of maple syrup for sweetness. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew this dish was going to be a hit.

As I grilled the tofu, I could hear the sizzle and smell the smoky char that was forming on the outside. I flipped it over, admiring the beautiful grill marks that were beginning to appear.

When the tofu was done, I plated it up and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the smokiness of the grill, the richness of the spices, and the hint of sweetness from the maple syrup. It was a flavor sensation unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special, and I couldn't wait to share it with my friends and family. The next day, I whipped up another batch of Texas Tofu and brought it to a picnic in the park.

As my friends took their first bites, their eyes widened in surprise and delight. They couldn't believe that tofu could be so flavorful and satisfying. I beamed with pride as they asked for the recipe, eager to try it out for themselves.

From that day on, Texas Tofu became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just for myself on lazy weeknights. Each time I cooked it, I was transported back to that hot summer day in San Antonio, surrounded by friends and the delicious smells of the barbecue.

I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there. Sometimes I would swap out the spices for something new, or add in a different marinade for extra flavor. Each variation was delicious in its own way, but the original Texas Tofu recipe remained my favorite.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with countless people, each one falling in love with its bold flavors and simple preparation. It became a go-to dish for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, proving that tofu could be just as satisfying as any cut of meat.

As I look back on that fateful day in San Antonio, I am grateful for Maria's discovery and for the inspiration it gave me. The recipe for Texas Tofu has become a cherished part of my culinary journey, a reminder of the power of trying new things and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

I may have learned this recipe from a friend, but it has become uniquely mine – a testament to my love of cooking and my willingness to embrace the unknown. And as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that there will always be new recipes and flavors waiting to be discovered, just like Texas Tofu.