Tofu Chili with Chicken

Tofu Chili with Chicken Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tofu Chili with Chicken is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of tofu, chicken, and a variety of spices to create a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy and protein-packed meal that is also full of flavor.

History

Tofu Chili with Chicken is a modern twist on traditional chili recipes. By incorporating tofu and chicken, this recipe adds a unique and healthy twist to the classic dish. The combination of tofu and chicken provides a great source of protein, making this dish a nutritious and filling option for any meal.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1.5 cups onions, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
4 to 6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp canned green chiles, diced
1 tsp cumin seeds
0.5 tsp oregano leaves
1 to 2 tbsp chili powder
0.25 to 0.5 tsp crushed red hot pepper (optional)
14 oz (397 g) firm Chinese-style tofu, frozen, thawed, drained and crumbled
2 cups black beans, cooked
1 skinless boneless chicken breast, cooked and diced
1 (15 oz (425 g)) can tomatoes in purée

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large pan.
Add onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic.
Sauté over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
Add green chiles, cumin seeds, oregano, chili powder, and crushed red hot pepper if desired.
Blend and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes longer.
Add well-drained, crumbled tofu, black beans, chicken breast, and tomatoes.
Break up tomatoes into smaller pieces.
Mix well, partially cover, and gently simmer over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes longer.
Serve.
Add salt or light salt, pepper, and/or hot sauce to taste.
If the chili appears dry while cooking, moisten with some reserved cooking liquid from black beans, a small amount of water, or add a small can of tomato sauce.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra tofu or beans.
Add different vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain and crumble the tofu before adding it to the chili to ensure a meaty texture.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder and crushed red hot pepper to suit your spice preference.

- If the chili appears dry while cooking, add some reserved cooking liquid from the black beans or a small amount of water to moisten it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tofu Chili with Chicken with a side of rice, quinoa, or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to crumble the tofu and cook it until it is slightly browned for the best texture.

- Simmer the chili over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.

- Substitute kidney beans or pinto beans for black beans if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Tofu Chili with Chicken with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Tofu Chili with Chicken with a side of cornbread and a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Tofu Chili with Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu Chili with Chicken is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (from tofu) and chicken as potential allergens.

Summary

Tofu Chili with Chicken is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Tofu Chili with Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Packed with protein and flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret and I had been friends since we were little girls, and we shared a love for cooking and trying out new recipes. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on warm cups of tea, Margaret suddenly remembered a recipe she had picked up during her travels in Asia.

"It's called Tofu Chili with Chicken," Margaret said excitedly. "I learned it from a local chef in Thailand. It's a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of tofu, chicken, and spicy chili peppers. Would you like to try making it with me?"

I eagerly agreed, and we set to work gathering the ingredients we would need. Margaret explained that the key to this dish was to use firm tofu, as it would hold its shape and absorb the flavors of the chili sauce. We also needed boneless, skinless chicken breasts, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a variety of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

As we chopped and prepared the ingredients, Margaret shared stories of her time in Thailand and the amazing dishes she had tried during her travels. She spoke of the bustling markets filled with vibrant colors and exotic spices, the friendly locals who welcomed her into their kitchens, and the delicious meals she had shared with newfound friends.

As the aromas of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce filled the air, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I remembered my own travels to far-off lands, and the wonderful recipes I had learned along the way. Cooking had always been a way for me to connect with new cultures and experiences, and I was grateful for the opportunity to learn this new recipe from Margaret.

After simmering the tofu, chicken, and vegetables in a rich chili sauce, we sat down to enjoy our creation. The tofu was tender and flavorful, the chicken juicy and tender, and the vegetables perfectly cooked. The combination of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors was a delight to my taste buds, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

From that day on, Tofu Chili with Chicken became a favorite dish in my household. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and cozy nights at home. Each time I prepared it, I would think back to that special day with Margaret and the memories we had created together.

Over the years, I have adapted the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have experimented with different types of chili peppers, added extra spices and seasonings, and even tried using different proteins such as tofu or shrimp. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the essence of that day with Margaret always remains the same.

As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, preparing Tofu Chili with Chicken for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile at the thought of passing on this recipe to the next generation. I hope that they will enjoy making it as much as I have, and that it will bring them as much joy and connection to the world around them as it has brought me.

Cooking is more than just preparing food – it is a way to create memories, share stories, and connect with others. And for me, Tofu Chili with Chicken will always be a reminder of the special bond I share with my dear friend Margaret, and the wonderful world of flavors and experiences that cooking has brought into my life.