Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly versatile meal? Look no further! This recipe for silken tofu is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Silken tofu, with its incredibly soft and delicate texture, is a blank canvas for flavour, ready to absorb whatever deliciousness you throw at it. Whether you're aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer, this easy recipe will become a staple in your healthy cooking repertoire. This dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a perfect choice for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) silken tofu, drained
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped scallions, 1 tablespoon sriracha, toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Gently press the silken tofu to remove excess water. You can do this by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps prevent a watery final dish.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. The key to a delicious sauce is ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Marinate
Carefully crumble the pressed silken tofu into a medium-sized bowl. Pour the sauce over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Gently toss to combine. Let the mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors. For an even richer taste, marinate for longer - even up to an hour in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Cook (Optional)
While the marinated tofu is delicious served cold, you can gently sauté it in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until it’s lightly browned and heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as silken tofu can easily break apart.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the silken tofu over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds (optional) for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. This simple dish is surprisingly satisfying and a testament to the deliciousness that can come from homemade cooking.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavour, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you don't have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Tofu: Add a tablespoon or two of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to two or three cloves for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Savory Tofu: Add a teaspoon of black sesame oil for a richer, nuttier flavor.
- Vegetable Tofu: Add your favorite vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the pan along with the tofu during the optional cooking step.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and is relatively low in calories and fat. The exact nutritional information will depend on the specific ingredients used. However, a serving will generally contain around 150-200 calories, 10-15 grams of protein, and 5-10 grams of fat.
This recipe for silken tofu provides a fantastic base for numerous delicious and healthy dishes. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a perfect choice for those looking for quick dinner ideas and best recipes without compromising on taste or nutrition. Enjoy!