This Easy Balsamic Glazed Tofu is packed with flavor! With a sweet and tangy glaze, it makes tofu exciting and delicious. Perfect for a quick dinner or a protein boost in a salad!
Let’s be real, even tofu skeptics can’t resist this magic glaze! I love making it for lunch or dinner, and I always pair it with rice or veggies because it’s a happy match. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during cooking. If you’re not a fan of tofu, you can use tempeh or seitan instead!
Balsamic vinegar: This is the star of the glaze! If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar can be a substitute, though it might be a bit less sweet.
Soy sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a great umami flavor, but feel free to swap in tamari for a gluten-free option, or even coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Maple syrup or honey: This adds sweetness to balance the tanginess. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup, or you can use agave syrup as an alternative.
Olive oil: I love using olive oil, but you can also use sesame oil for a nutty flavor. Just remember that sesame oil has a stronger taste!
How Do You Get Tofu to Have Great Texture?
The key to delicious tofu is in the pressing! Start by pressing it firmly for at least 15 minutes. This will remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more flavor and achieve a great, crispy texture while cooking.
- Slice the tofu into squares after pressing it; one-inch thickness is great for cooking.
- Cook the tofu in a preheated pan with olive oil on medium heat. Golden and crispy is what you want!
Also, remember not to overcrowd the pan. Give each tofu piece enough space to breathe! This helps achieve that coveted crispy outside while keeping the inside soft and delicious.
Easy Balsamic Glazed Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional, since soy sauce is salty)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 20 minutes from start to finish! This includes pressing the tofu, preparing the glaze, cooking everything in the skillet, and garnishing your dish. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
First, press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. You can do this by wrapping the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and placing something heavy on top of it, like a cast-iron skillet. After pressing, cut the tofu into about 1-inch thick squares.
2. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and set aside.
3. Cook the Tofu:
Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the tofu pieces into the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches!
4. Add the Glaze:
Pour the balsamic glaze mixture over the cooked tofu in the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, using a spatula to spoon the glaze over the tofu so that it thickens and coats the tofu evenly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the tofu from the heat and place it on a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the tofu. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful, sweet, and tangy balsamic glazed tofu! It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed veggies, or even a fresh salad. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Balsamic Glazed Tofu
Can I Use Different Types of Tofu?
Absolutely! Firm or extra-firm tofu is recommended for the best texture, but you can experiment with silken tofu if you prefer a softer consistency. Just keep in mind that silken tofu won’t hold its shape as well when cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan-friendly option!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the balsamic glaze and press the tofu in advance. Simply store the pressed tofu in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, proceed with the recipe as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What Can I Serve with Balsamic Glazed Tofu?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or sautéed vegetables. You can also serve it over a bed of fresh salad greens for a lighter option. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes!
