Vegan Black Pepper Tofu

Black Pepper Tofu

Tofu, known for its versatility and high protein content, is a staple in many vegan and vegetarian diets. This black pepper tofu recipe not only showcases the tofu’s ability to absorb flavors but also presents a delightful balance of spice and sweetness. Perfect for a main course or an appetizer, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Below is an extensive guide to making this delectable dish, along with useful tips and nutritional information.

Ingredients:

• 400g pressed tofu
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• Cornflour or cornstarch (for dusting)
• 4 tablespoons cooking oil

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

• 4 spring onions, thinly sliced
• Chili pepper or chili flakes (to taste)
• 5 teaspoons minced ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 teaspoons cornstarch
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 5 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce

Instructions:

1. Press the Tofu:
   • Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. This can be done by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for at least 20 minutes. Properly pressed tofu absorbs the marinade better and achieves a crispier texture when cooked.
2. Slice and Marinate the Tofu:
   • Slice the tofu into even squares. For a uniform appearance, aim for cubes about 1 inch in size.
   • Place the tofu cubes in a bowl and pour 2 tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce over them. Gently toss to ensure each piece is well coated with the sauce.
3. Dust with Cornflour:
   • In a separate bowl, add some cornflour. Take each marinated tofu piece and lightly dust it with cornflour. This step helps in achieving a crispy exterior when fried.
4. Frying the Tofu:
   • Heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu pieces. Fry them until golden brown on all sides, turning occasionally to prevent burning. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
   • Remove the tofu from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Alternative Baking Method:
   • For a healthier option, you can bake the tofu. Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
   • Place the marinated and dusted tofu on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Preparing the Sauce:
   • While the tofu is cooking, prepare the black pepper sauce. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 5 teaspoons of rice wine vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of dark brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
   • In another bowl, mix 3 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water to create a slurry. This will be used to thicken the sauce.
7. Cooking the Sauce:
   • In a clean pan, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat.
   • Add the white parts of the sliced spring onions and the minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the minced ginger and chili flakes. Cook for another minute, ensuring the aromatics do not burn.
8. Adding the Sauce Ingredients:
   • Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pan. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
   • Gradually add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
9. Combining Tofu and Sauce:
   • Add the fried or baked tofu to the pan with the sauce. Gently toss to ensure each piece of tofu is well coated with the sauce.
   • Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
10. Final Seasoning:
    • Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be generous with the black pepper, as it is the highlight of the dish.
11. Garnishing:
    • Remove the tofu from heat and transfer it to a serving dish.
    • Garnish with the green parts of the spring onions for a fresh and vibrant touch.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 262
• Sugar: 8g
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 17g

Tips for the Perfect Black Pepper Tofu:

1. Pressing the Tofu: Ensure to press the tofu well to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
2. Marinating Time: If you have more time, let the tofu marinate for longer. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
3. Heat Control: When frying the tofu, maintain medium-high heat. Too low, and the tofu will absorb too much oil; too high, and it may burn quickly.
4. Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of cornstarch slurry to achieve your preferred sauce thickness. Add more for a thicker sauce and less for a thinner consistency.
5. Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish. Stir-fry them before adding the tofu to create a more wholesome meal.
6. Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to retain the texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can we keep the leftovers? Yes, you can store this delicious meal for up to 2 days in a cool place. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can we use other vegetables? Absolutely, you can use any other vegetables you prefer. Bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli are excellent choices that complement the flavors well.

Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe is gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients used are also certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different protein? Yes, if you’re not a fan of tofu, you can substitute it with tempeh or seitan. Adjust the cooking times accordingly as needed.

This black pepper tofu is a testament to how versatile and delicious tofu can be when prepared correctly. The combination of crispy tofu and the robust black pepper sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or new to plant-based meals, this recipe is sure to impress. Incorporate it into your weekly meal rotation for a healthy, protein-packed option that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Explore the delightful world of vegan cuisine with our Black Pepper Tofu recipe. This dish combines the crispiness of perfectly cooked tofu with a robust black pepper sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Ideal for any meal, this tofu dish is not only delicious but also rich in protein and nutrients. Follow our detailed recipe for a professional and optimized cooking experience.