12 Ways to Take Tofu From Hum Drum to Hey-O!

Tofu is one of those amazing food items that is enjoyed by many, but not for its taste. Let’s face it, alone, kind of tastes like nothing. Ready to take on the flavors of whatever spice mixtures we can dream up, it’s a blank slate just waiting to be made into a masterpiece. For those of us whose culinary skills are more akin to drawing stick figures than cooking the equivalent of the Sistine Chapel’s roof, a few art lessons might be in order when working with this stuff!

The great news is, it’s completely easy to take that block of tofu staring at you in your refrigerator and make something flavorful, interesting and downright delectable. Asian, Mexican, and Indian spices lend themselves perfectly to this soy-based canvas while its texture can more than hold its own to grilling, sautéing, and even the kabob treatment. When it comes to versatility, nothing compares to trusty tofu. Here are a dozen recipes to show you just what we mean.

1. Kidney Bean and Tofu Burger

Eating plant-based burgers doesn’t mean that you have to give up on flavor. Not at all. This Game Day Kidney Bean and Tofu Burger will satisfy even the most picky eater on the hunt for his (or her!) burger fix. Score!

2. Buffalo Tofu Fries

These Buffalo Tofu Fries are fast and easy to make. The sauce is simple yet firey and spicy. Served with carrot and celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce (we made a simple vegan ranch), it’s the perfect answer to that craving for an old favorite.

3. General Tso’s Tofu

This General Tso’s Tofu is crispy and flavorful, the sauce is not too sweet and not too spicy, just thick and rich, just like takeout. Served with crunchy broccoli and 5-Spice Brown Rice, this yummy tofu is made to order — sorry, it’s not delivery. But it is easy to make!

4. Jamaican Curried Tofu With Chickpeas

Curried meat is a traditional Jamaican dish. But this Jamaican Curried Tofu is all vegan! It could also be made with just the chickpeas and potatoes for an equally delicious meal. To make it less spicy, you can skip the chile pepper and/or use less red pepper flakes.

5. Cajun Tofu With Dirty Quinoa

Every now and then, we all get a little lazy and hit the “easy” button when it comes to cooking. Often, this includes falling on spices to bring on the flavor. In this recipe for Cajun Tofu With Dirty Quinoa, it’s all about the homemade seasoning. This rub is a nice blend of salt and red spices that can act as the undertone or the main flavor. Then, it’s paired with dirty quinoa. Traditionally, dirty rice is made with meat, rice, and herbs. Here, it is stripped it down to the main flavors and quinoa replaces rice for extra protein. It is a flavorful dish guaranteed to satisfy.

6. ‘Paneer’ Tikka Masala

Tikka masala is a popular North Indian entrée that is usually served with naan and basmati rice. One of the most popular renditions is paneer tikka masala, or curry with paneer, or an Indian cottage cheese which doesn’t melt at high temperature. If you’re cutting back on cheese, you don’t have to feel left behind. This “Paneer” Tikka Masala is an equally tasty, healthy, and authentic. Don’t get intimidated by the list of spices, the beauty and flavor of authentic Indian food is in the variety of fragrant spices. Enjoy this Tofu tikka masala with a side of naan and fragrant basmati rice, make sure to stock on enough Malbec to wash it all down.

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7. Curried Tofu Scramble

Everyone needs a good tofu scramble recipe and this Curried Tofu Scramble is a serious contender for your #1 go-to breakfast recipe. Tofu is cooked with curry powder, turmeric, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. Then, mushrooms and fresh bell peppers are thrown into the mix to add flavor and texture. Serve this with avocado and greens on the side.

8. Tofu Vegetable Kebabs With Peanut Sauce

Even if you’re not a fan of tofu, we guarantee that these Tofu Vegetable Kebabs will win you over. Extra firm tofu is marinated in an umami peanut sauce and then grilled with fresh, seasonal vegetables. The tofu turns out perfectly smoky and flavorful. Trust us, after you try this, you will be a tofu person.

9. Seared Tamari Maple Tofu

Need something quick that will make you look at tofu in a completely different way? This Seared Tamari Maple Tofu is easy and uses a marinade that takes just minutes to whip up. All you need is tamari, maple syrup, liquid smoke, and a little bit of olive oil! There’s nothing like a simple, delicious recipe to rescue your weeknight.

10. Asian Chili Tofu

A simple and flavorful stir-fry with sharp green chili and fresh tasting green onions. Need way say more? This Asian Chili Tofu is for anyone who like it spicy. You get heat from the green chilis, umami from soy sauce, sweetness from agave nectar, and even a touch of white wine. Serve this with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

11. Smoky Tofu With Tandoori Spices

Fire up the grill for this Smoky Tofu With Tandoori Spices! This is a smoky and delightful dish that is perfect for the grill and makes a wonderful meal. Coconut milk replaces yogurt in the traditional tandoori marinade paired with fresh tomato, chilis, and tandoori masala. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and red onion slices just before serving.

12. Flourless Tofu-Zucchini Muffins

Who knew you could use tofu to make baked goodies? These Flourless Zucchini-Tofu Muffins are light, but nevertheless filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light snack.

Need more ideas? Check out our vegan tofu recipes page!

Lead image source:Tofu Vegetable Kebabs