Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4
This Peanut Butter Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines crispy tofu with a creamy peanut butter sauce. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a delightful way to enjoy tofu with a unique twist. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delicious meal!
Ingredients:
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 ounces) of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
For the Peanut Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup of coconut milk or water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes.
- In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the tofu cubes to the skillet and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Gradually add the coconut milk or water, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if needed.
Step 3: Combine the Tofu and Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the tofu, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the peanut butter sauce.
- Add the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet and stir gently to coat the tofu with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the peanut butter tofu over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa.
- Accompany with steamed or stir-fried vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Crunch: Add some chopped peanuts or cashews on top for added texture.
- Different Proteins: Substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
This Peanut Butter Tofu is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich and nutty flavors combined with crispy tofu for a delightful meal. Happy cooking!
