Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Sofritas Style Spicy Shredded Tofu! This Mexican-inspired recipe brings a delightful twist to your table, offering a satisfying and wholesome alternative to traditional meat fillings. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful, plant-based masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned tofu lover or a curious newcomer, this recipe is sure to ignite your taste buds and inspire your culinary creativity!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the extra-firm tofu from its packaging and press out excess moisture using a tofu press or by wrapping in clean kitchen towels and placing a heavy object on top for 15 minutes.
- Crumble the pressed tofu into small, rough pieces using your hands, creating a shredded texture similar to ground meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the onions, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Sprinkle chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the tofu, mixing thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies into the skillet, stirring to incorporate all ingredients.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let the tofu simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the tofu rest for 2-3 minutes to further develop its flavors.
- Serve hot as a filling for tacos, burritos, bowls, or as a protein-rich topping for salads.
Tips
- Pressing the Tofu: Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture when sautéed. If you don’t have a tofu press, use a heavy skillet or a few cans as a weight.
- Flavor Building: Don’t rush the sautéing of the onions; allowing them to caramelize slightly will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit it entirely.
- Simmer for Flavor: Letting the tofu simmer allows the spices to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: This Sofritas-style tofu is incredibly versatile! Serve it in tacos, burritos, or bowls, or use it as a topping for salads. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or lime for an extra burst of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
