Teriyaki Tofu

Teriyaki Tofu is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings together the classic teriyaki sauce and the mildness of tofu. The teriyaki sauce, made from pantry staples, is rich, savory, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect companion for tofu. This recipe takes a unique approach to infuse the tofu with teriyaki flavors by baking it slowly in the homemade sauce. As the tofu releases its liquid during cooking, it enriches the sauce, resulting in a perfectly balanced and delectable dish. This recipe is easy to make and will satisfy both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ cup water
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 28 ounces extra-firm tofu, sliced crosswise into ¾-inch-thick slabs
• Pepper
• 2 scallions, green parts only, sliced thin
• Lime wedges

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together water, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, minced garlic, cornstarch, and grated ginger until smooth. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer vigorously until it thickens and reduces to ¾ cup, approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and position the rack in the middle. Arrange the tofu slices in an even layer in a 13 by 9-inch baking dish, then pour the teriyaki sauce evenly over the tofu. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
3. Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, flipping the tofu slices halfway through the cooking time. This will ensure that both sides of the tofu absorb the flavorful sauce and become tender.
4. Once the tofu is warmed through and the flavors have melded, transfer the tofu to a platter. Season the sauce with pepper to taste and pour it over the tofu. Sprinkle sliced scallions over the tofu for a fresh finish.
5. Serve the Teriyaki Tofu with lime wedges on the side, allowing each person to squeeze lime juice over their portion for an extra zesty kick.

TIPS:

• Choose the Right Tofu: Use either firm or extra-firm tofu for this recipe. Extra-firm tofu holds its shape better during cooking and absorbs more flavors, while firm tofu has a softer texture.
• Slow and Gentle Heat: Baking the tofu at a moderate temperature allows it to slowly absorb the teriyaki sauce’s flavors and ensures even cooking.
• Overreduce the Sauce: To account for the liquid released from the tofu during baking, overreduce the sauce initially so that it reaches the desired flavor and thickness once the tofu is cooked.
• Flip the Tofu: Halfway through baking, flip the tofu slabs to ensure both sides absorb the delicious teriyaki sauce.
• Garnish with Scallions and Lime: Sprinkle sliced scallions over the tofu before serving to add a refreshing touch. Accompany the dish with lime wedges to squeeze over the tofu for a burst of tangy citrus flavor.

Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Teriyaki Tofu with your favorite rice or noodles for a delightful meal. The slow-baked tofu infused with the rich teriyaki flavors will surely become a family favorite!