Umami Bomb Tofu: A Flavor-Packed Vegan Delight
Tofu sometimes gets a bad rap for being bland, but when prepared right, it can be a canvas for incredible flavors. This Umami Bomb Tofu recipe is proof that tofu can be anything but boring. With a delicious glaze made from tamari, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and garlic, this dish is bursting with umami goodness. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 block extra firm tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons tamari
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon water
- 4 teaspoons maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Cook the Tofu:
Place a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the avocado oil. Carefully add the tofu cubes to the skillet, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer. Cook the tofu until it is golden brown on all sides, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
3. Make the Umami Sauce:
While the tofu is browning, whisk together the tamari, Dijon mustard, water, maple syrup, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This mixture will create the rich, flavorful glaze that gives the tofu its umami “bomb.”
4. Glaze the Tofu:
Once the tofu is evenly browned, reduce the heat to low. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu, stirring continuously to coat all the pieces. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The tofu will absorb the flavors, becoming beautifully glazed and aromatic.
5. Serve:
Remove the tofu from the heat and serve immediately. This umami bomb tofu is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it over rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or even in a wrap or salad.
Serving Suggestions
Umami Bomb Tofu is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a range of sides. Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal, or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a balanced, nutritious dinner. It also works wonderfully in grain bowls or as a protein-packed topping for salads.
Final Thoughts
This Umami Bomb Tofu recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your tofu game. The combination of tamari, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and garlic creates a complex, savory glaze that makes every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
If you try this Umami Bomb Tofu, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag your photos on social media—I’d love to see your delicious creations!
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Umami Bomb Tofu
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Dive into the flavors of Umami Bomb Tofu, an easy-to-make, protein-rich dish that promises to delight your palate with its deep, savory essence. This recipe uses simple ingredients like extra firm tofu, tamari, and Dijon mustard to create a tantalizing glaze that perfectly coats each golden-brown cube of tofu, offering a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 block extra firm tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tablespoons tamari
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon water
4 teaspoons maple syrup
3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
Place a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add in the oil. Add in the tofu and cook until the tofu is golden brown on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
While the tofu is browning, whisk together the tamari, Dijon mustard, water, maple syrup, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
Reduce the heat to low and pour the sauce over the tofu. Stir continually until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu, about 1-2 minutes.
Remove from the heat and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes