Are you tired of bland, soggy tofu that disappoints every time? Get ready to transform your cooking with this mind-blowing pressed tofu recipe that will make even meat-lovers do a double-take! Whether you're a seasoned vegan, a health-conscious foodie, or just looking to spice up your protein game, this simple yet revolutionary technique will elevate your culinary skills and tantalize your taste buds with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Remove tofu from packaging and drain excess liquid. Place tofu block on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Wrap tofu firmly in the towel and place a heavy object like a cast-iron skillet or cutting board on top to press out additional moisture. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- While tofu is pressing, prepare seasoning mix by combining soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
- Unwrap tofu and cut into uniform slices approximately 1/2 inch thick. Pat each slice dry with paper towels to ensure maximum seasoning absorption.
- If using plain preparation, lightly brush tofu slices with olive oil. If using spiced version, thoroughly coat each slice with prepared seasoning mixture.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place tofu slices in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy edges form.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot as a protein component in salads, stir-fries, or as a standalone dish.
Tips
- Pressing is Key: Always remove excess moisture from tofu to achieve that coveted crispy exterior. The longer you press, the firmer and crispier your tofu will become.
- Dry Means Crispy: After pressing, pat your tofu slices completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting those golden, crunchy edges.
- High Heat Magic: Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan to get the perfect sear without sticking.
- Seasoning Variations: Don't be afraid to experiment! While this recipe offers a delicious spice blend, you can customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Marinating Option: For even more flavor, let your tofu slices sit in the seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes before cooking to enhance absorption.
- Serving Suggestions: This versatile tofu works great in stir-fries, salads, grain bowls, or as a standalone protein that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
