Crispy Tofu with Balsamic Tomatoes
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Crispy tofu with balsamic tomatoes—just saying those words can make your taste buds tingle with anticipation! This delightful dish is the perfect harmony of textures and flavors, with the crispy tofu beautifully complemented by the sweet-savory balsamic tomatoes.
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If you’re looking for a simple, family-friendly, healthy tofu and tomato recipe that’ll make everyone’s taste buds sing, you’ve come to the right place!
Why You Will Love This Crispy Tofu with Balsamic Tomatoes
- Crispy meets juicy: The contrast between the perfectly crispy tofu cubes and the burst-in-your-mouth cherry tomatoes is a culinary experience you won’t want to miss. It’s a symphony of textures that’ll leave your palate dancing with joy.
- Effortless elegance: Despite its gourmet appearance, balsamic glazed tofu is incredibly easy to whip up. It’s a weeknight superstar that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
- Versatile and healthy: Whether you’re a vegan enthusiast or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, crispy tofu with balsamic tomatoes has you covered. It’s delicious and loaded with fresh, wholesome ingredients that’ll keep your belly and body happy.
Ingredients
- Extra-firm tofu: The hero of this dish, tofu provides a satisfying, protein-packed base.
- Olive oil: Helps achieve that crispy tofu texture without drying out.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the taste of the crispy tofu with balsamic tomatoes.
- Cherry tomatoes: Bursting with a sweet, tart flavor, the soft, juicy cherry tomatoes perfectly complement the crispy tofu cubes.
- Garlic: Infuses a delightful aroma and flavor to the balsamic reduction.
- Balsamic vinegar: The secret to that mouthwatering rich, sweet-tart sauce.
- Honey or maple syrup: The sweetness balances the acidity of the balsamic glaze.
- Fresh basil: Adds a refreshing herbal note.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of spicy excitement.
- Roasted chopped nuts or sesame seeds: For added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crispy Tofu with Balsamic Tomatoes
Can I use a different type of tofu?
Absolutely! While extra-firm tofu works best for that perfect crispiness, you can experiment with firm tofu if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the slight texture difference.
What can I substitute for honey if I want to keep it vegan?
Maple syrup is a fantastic vegan alternative to honey. It imparts a complex sweetness to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to the tomato mixture. Spice crispy tofu with balsamic tomatoes to your heart’s content!
Can you overcook tofu?
Yup, you can overcook your cubed tofu. Overcooked tofu is dry and rubbery, so the trick is to make sure the cubes are not too big. You can also experiment with your oven temperature and time.
Can you put tofu in the air fryer?
Absolutely! For air fryer crispy tofu, set the air fryer to 400°F. Place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway until the cubes of tofu are crisp and golden brown.
Tips for Making Crispy Tofu with Balsamic Tomatoes
- Press that tofu: To achieve the coveted crispy texture, press your tofu properly. Removing excess water will allow it to crisp up beautifully in the oven. We like using the EZ Tofu Press!
- Mind your balsamic reduction: When simmering the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, keep an eye on it. You want it to thicken just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Embrace the variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your crispy tofu and cherry tomatoes. Add your favorite veggies, experiment with different herbs, or try a different type of vinegar for a unique twist. Cooking should be fun, so let your taste buds guide you on a culinary adventure! If you are looking for a flavor other than balsamic, give this Teriyaki Tofu a try!
Crispy Tofu with Balsamic Tomatoes
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Chopped and roasted nuts, optional
- Salt and black pepper, optional
Instructions
- Prep Tofu: Press tofu, cut it into cubes, and season them with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, bake the tofu cubes at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes until crispy.
- Cook Tomatoes: While the tofu cubes bake, sauté garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened. Stir in balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine: Once the tofu cubes are crispy, add them to the skillet with the balsamic tomato mixture. Gently mix to coat the tofu cubes with the glaze.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, and chopped nuts. Serve hot.
Notes
- Press that tofu: To achieve the coveted crispy texture, press your tofu properly. Removing excess water will allow it to crisp up beautifully in the oven. We like using the EZ Tofu Press!
- Mind your balsamic reduction: When simmering the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, keep an eye on it. You want it to thicken just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Embrace the variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your crispy tofu and cherry tomatoes. Add your favorite veggies, experiment with different herbs, or try a different type of vinegar for a unique twist. Cooking should be fun, so let your taste buds guide you on a culinary adventure! If you are looking for a flavor other than balsamic, give this Teriyaki Tofu a try!
