Teriyaki Tofu Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How long should you marinate tofu? ›

Seal the bag and leave it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. Tip: Gently massage the tofu in the bag at least once to ensure each tofu cube is well coated and has a chance to soak up those amazing flavors.

Marinate it: Tofu can be marinated in a variety of flavorful sauces or spices. You can use soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and other seasonings to make a simple marinade. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) before cooking or grilling.

Add the tofu

Drain the firm or extra tofu from its package and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Tip: We don't find it necessary to press tofu, but if you like, you can do so.

A light coating of cornstarch will absorb even more moisture from the tofu's surface and contribute to a distinct coating. Sprinkle over the starch (potato starch, tapioca starch, and arrowroot all work too) a little bit at a time and toss the tofu, pressing gently so the starch adheres.

In a mixing bowl or measuring cup with a spout, whisk together the marinade: soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ginger, and Sriracha. Drizzle over the tofu. If any pieces look bare, turn them over in the marinade a few times so all of the sides are coated.

In this recipe I introduced a well balanced Asian sauce that is savory, a little spicy, and full of aroma. It takes no time to put together. Once the tofu is marinated, I use a cornstarch coating with some cumin powder in it.

What to not serve with tofu? According to studies, a high volume consumption of tofu and spinach together can increase your risk of kidney stones. Tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively and the combined can form kidney stones.

Low calorie density: Tofu is a low calorie food, with around 70-90 calories per 100 grams, making it a good option for those who are trying to lose weight. This is because foods with low calorie density help you feel full with fewer calories, which can help you consume fewer total calories throughout the day.

If you're new to a plant-based diet you may think you don't like tofu, but chances are it's just been prepared wrong. In reality, plain tofu is not very flavorful at all (but that's the great thing about it!). Tofu, like chicken and these other mild-flavored meats, is a great vehicle for flavor.

Boiling extracts some of water somehow, making it easier to fry, but it does it without compressing the tofu, so you get delightful spongey insides instead of dense tofu bricks. It also extracts the water more evenly than squeezing it out, especially if you squeeze precubulation. Plus, the salted water seasons them.

What happens if you don't drain tofu before cooking? ›

Here's the thing: even though tofu might be labeled firm or extra-firm, it contains a lot of water. This excess water can cause the tofu to crumble when you cook it, and it will also have a hard time crisping up. But when you press tofu, you remove the excess moisture.

Don't use oil in a marinade

Depending on the amount of moisture in the tofu, the oil can form a layer around the tofu, preventing it from absorbing flavours. For example, when grilling tofu, brush with oil only after it has been marinated. Due to its high water content, tofu takes up little oil during preparation.

Your tofu needs to soak for about 15 minutes. Put your timer on and go put your feet up. This salt water soak may seem counterintuitive but it actually helps draw the moisture out of the tofu. After the tofu's done soaking, drain off the salt water and pat the tofu dry with a tea towel.

The leftover cooked or uncooked tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Can you freeze the tofu in the marinade? Absolutely! Add the tofu cubes and marinade to a large ziplock bag, seal it closed, and freeze for up to 6 months.

But that's why this healthy, centuries-old protein is rarely eaten plain. When it comes to tofu, a good, flavorful marinade is your best friend. In fact, the right combination of seasoning and sauce takes a dull ingredient and transforms it into a food you will want to eat over and over again.

Why Marinate Tofu? It comes down to flavor. You can absolutely do a quick toss in your favorite sauce when you're in a time crunch. However, when you marinate tofu for longer, more flavor will have the opportunity to really penetrate into the tofu and give your dish more flavor.