Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Sriracha Tofu recipe, inspired by the amazing finds at Trader Joe's, is a healthy and delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is packed with flavor and will quickly become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and delicious dish. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed
- 2 tablespoons Trader Joe's Sriracha (or your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional: Green onions for garnish, sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu:
Press the tofu to remove excess water. This is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Sriracha Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Sriracha, soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. The fragrant blend of sweet, spicy, and savory will tantalize your taste buds!
Step 3: Marinate the Tofu:
Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and add them to the Sriracha marinade. Toss gently to ensure all the tofu is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a more intense flavor. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will become.
Step 4: Coat in Cornstarch:
In a separate shallow dish, place the cornstarch. Add the marinated tofu cubes and toss gently to coat them completely. This will help create a crispy exterior when pan-fried.
Step 5: Pan-Fry the Tofu:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu cubes to the skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy:
Once the tofu is cooked, remove it from the skillet and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. This delicious Sriracha tofu is perfect served with rice, quinoa, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispy tofu, try baking it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes after pan-frying.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the tofu; this will lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than crispy, tofu.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, to add more nutrients and texture to your dish.
Variations:
- Honey Garlic Tofu: Replace the Sriracha with honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Spicy Peanut Tofu: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the marinade for a creamy and nutty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. A good estimate for a serving of this Sriracha Tofu would be around 250-300 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and healthy fats. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This Sriracha Tofu recipe is a fantastic example of a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's easy to customize to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and satisfying addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!