7 Creative Ways to Use Tofu in Your Vegan Cooking

Tofu is a versatile and nutritious staple in vegan cuisine. This plant-based protein powerhouse can transform into countless delicious dishes with the right techniques and seasonings.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just starting to explore meat-free options, these 7 creative ways to use tofu will inspire you to experiment in the kitchen.

1. Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets

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Craving a satisfying crunch without the meat? Crispy baked tofu nuggets are here to save the day!

Start with extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Press it to remove excess moisture – this step is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp. Place the tofu block between clean kitchen towels and weigh it down with a heavy pan or a board with some books for about 30 minutes.

You could also invest in a handy tofu press if tofu will make a regular appearance in your meals!

Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Now, it’s time to marinate! A simple mixture of soy sauce, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast works wonders. Let the tofu soak up these flavours for at least 15 minutes.

Combine cornstarch, paprika, and a pinch of salt for the crispy coating in a shallow dish. Gently toss each tofu cube in this mixture until well-coated.

Arrange the coated nuggets on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 200°C for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Serve these nuggets hot with your favourite dipping sauce. Try a vegan mayo, BBQ sauce, or sweet chilli sauce for a flavour explosion. These nuggets are perfect for snacking, as a party appetiser, or as a protein-packed addition to salads and grain bowls.

2. Silken Tofu Chocolate Mousse

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Who says vegans can’t enjoy creamy, indulgent desserts? This silken tofu chocolate mousse will change the game for your sweet tooth cravings.

Silken tofu is the secret to achieving a smooth, velvety texture without dairy. Its neutral flavour makes it the perfect base for a rich chocolate dessert.

To make this mousse, you’ll need:

• 1 package of silken tofu (about 350g)
• 30g cocoa powder
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Pour the mixture into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Top your mousse with fresh berries, a sprinkle of cacao nibs or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. Not only is this dessert delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and antioxidants from the tofu and cocoa.

Experiment with flavours by adding a dash of peppermint extract for a mint chocolate version, or fold in some orange zest for a citrusy twist. The possibilities are endless!

Silken tofu also provides a protein boost to smoothies and adds a smooth, creamy texture. Mix silken tofu with fruits, greens, and plant-based milk for a tasty snack or breakfast.

3. Tofu Scramble with Mediterranean Twist

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Say goodbye to boring breakfasts with this protein-packed tofu scramble, infused with Mediterranean flavours.

Start by crumbling a block of firm tofu into a bowl. Heat a frying pan with olive oil and sauté diced onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the crumbled tofu and cook for a few minutes.

Now, here’s where the Mediterranean magic happens. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle in dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of turmeric for colour.

Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finish with a handful of fresh spinach and let it wilt slightly.

Serve your Mediterranean tofu scramble with whole grain toast or wrapped in a warm pita. For an extra punch of flavour, crumble some vegan feta on top or drizzle with tahini sauce.

This breakfast is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The tofu and Mediterranean ingredients are a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants to start your day right.

4. Grilled Tofu Skewers

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Fire up the grill for these flavourful tofu skewers – perfect for summer barbecues or year-round indoor grilling.

Begin with extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes. The key to great grilled tofu is the marinade. Try this simple yet delicious option:

• 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Juice of 1 lemon

Marinate the tofu cubes for at least 30 minutes, but ideally overnight for maximum flavour absorption.

When ready to grill, thread the marinated tofu onto skewers, alternating with chunks of bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini. This adds colour and infuses the tofu with additional flavours as it cooks.

Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the tofu is nicely charred and the vegetables are tender.

Serve these skewers over a bed of quinoa or rice, drizzled with any remaining marinade. They’re also great stuffed into pita pockets with fresh greens and vegan tzatziki sauce.

Grilled tofu skewers are a fantastic way to showcase tofu’s ability to absorb flavours and achieve a satisfying texture when cooked properly.

5. Tofu-Based “Ricotta” for Lasagne

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Craving a cheesy lasagne but want to keep it vegan? This tofu-based “ricotta” will make your Italian food dreams come true.

To make the tofu ricotta, you’ll need:

• 1 block of firm tofu, pressed
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Crumble the tofu into a food processor and add the remaining ingredients. Pulse until you achieve a texture similar to ricotta cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Now, you’re ready to layer your vegan lasagne. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce, then lasagne sheets (use gluten-free if needed). Spread a generous layer of your tofu ricotta, followed by sautéed spinach and mushrooms. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of your baking dish.

Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of vegan mozzarella if desired. Bake at 190°C for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

This tofu ricotta isn’t just for lasagne – use it in stuffed shells, as a spread for sandwiches, or as a dip for raw vegetables. It’s a versatile, protein-rich alternative to dairy ricotta that doesn’t compromise flavour or texture.

6. Smoky Tofu Bacon Strips

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Miss the taste and texture of bacon? These smoky tofu bacon strips will satisfy your cravings while keeping things plant-based.

Start with a block of extra-firm tofu. Instead of cubing it, slice the tofu into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier your “bacon” will be.

For the marinade, mix:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp liquid smoke
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• A pinch of black pepper

Lay the tofu strips in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, flipping once to ensure even coverage.

To cook, you have two options. For a healthier version, arrange the marinated strips on a lined baking sheet and bake at 200°C for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a more traditional approach, fry the strips in a non-stick pan with a little oil until crispy on both sides.

These smoky tofu bacon strips are perfect for breakfast sandwiches, crumbled over salads, or as a crunchy topping for baked potatoes. They add a delicious savoury flavour to any dish while providing a good dose of plant-based protein.

The key to great tofu bacon is in the marinade and cooking method. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking – some people enjoy adding a bit of onion powder or a dash of cayenne for heat.

7. Tofu and Vegetable Curry

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This tofu and vegetable curry is a one-pot wonder – perfect for busy weeknights!

Start by pressing and cubing a block of firm tofu. While it’s pressing, chop your favourite curry vegetables – bell peppers, carrots, cauliflower, and peas work great.

In a large pot or deep skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic in coconut oil. Add your favourite curry powder or paste and cook until fragrant. Add your cubed tofu and vegetables, stirring to coat everything in the spices.

Pour in a can of coconut milk and some vegetable broth. Simmer everything together for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Finish your curry with a squeeze of lime juice and a handful of fresh cilantro. Serve over steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal.

This curry is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. The combo of tofu and vegetables has a good balance of protein, fibre, and various vitamins and minerals. Plus, many curry spices like turmeric and cumin have anti-inflammatory properties.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or curry pastes to create your own signature tofu curry dish!

The Bottom Line

Tofu’s versatility shines through in these seven creative recipes. From crispy nuggets to creamy desserts, savoury bacon alternatives to comforting curries, tofu proves it can do it all.

Remember, the key to great tofu dishes is the preparation and seasoning. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavours and cooking methods. With practice, you’ll find your favourite ways to incorporate this plant-based protein into your meals.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these tofu recipes offer delicious and nutritious options for every meal of the day. So grab a block of tofu and start exploring the endless possibilities in your kitchen!

By embracing tofu’s potential, you’re not only expanding your culinary horizons but also making a positive impact on your health and the environment. Happy cooking!