Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our mouthwatering "Tofu with Pizzaiola Sauce." This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, featuring crispy tofu drenched in a rich, tangy tomato sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to impress your family and friends. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you won't want to miss out on this culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, sliced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Olive oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the tofu block and press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the tofu absorb more flavor and achieve a better texture.
- Cut the pressed tofu into even slices, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely when cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the tofu slices in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the sliced onions for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sprinkle dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Gently return the crispy tofu slices to the skillet, spooning the pizzaiola sauce over them to coat evenly.
- Let the tofu warm in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
Tips
- Pressing Tofu: Ensure you press the tofu well to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture and allows the tofu to absorb the pizzaiola sauce better.
- Cut Evenly: Slice the tofu into even pieces (about 1/2 inch thick) to ensure they cook uniformly. This will help each piece achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
- Heat Control: When cooking the tofu, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the slices. A medium-high heat will help create that desirable crispiness without burning.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat, or incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano for enhanced flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or over a bed of pasta for a hearty meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
