Ready to unlock the secret to incredibly flavorful tofu? It all starts with the perfect marinade! Tofu, made from pressed soy milk, is like a culinary sponge. Its firmness determines how well it soaks up flavor, and this simple recipe is the perfect way to turn a humble block of tofu into the star of your next meal.
Makes 2 cups / 500 mL
Ingredients
• 1 package 12.3 ounces / 349 g medium-firm, firm, or extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 1 cup / 250 mL Tofu Marinade
Instructions
1. Place the tofu cubes into a container with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all the cubes are fully covered.
3. Secure the lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the tofu.
4. Before using, drain any excess marinade from the tofu.
Nutritional Information
• Nutritional Snapshot
• Per 1/2 cup / 125 mL serving
• Calories: 139
• Protein: 14 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Iron: 9 mg
• Calcium: 599 mg
Pro Tips
• for Perfect Marinated Tofu
• For maximum flavor absorption, press your tofu before marinating. Wrap the block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, place something heavy on top (like a cast-iron skillet or a few books), and let it press for at least 30 minutes.
• The longer you marinate, the better! While 6 hours is great, leaving it overnight in the refrigerator will result in an even more intensely flavored tofu.
• The firmness of your tofu matters. Extra-firm tofu holds its shape best for cubing and is ideal for pan-frying or grilling after marinating. Medium-firm works well for crumbling into scrambles.
• Don’t toss the leftover marinade! You can boil it for a few minutes in a small saucepan to thicken it slightly and use it as a delicious sauce to drizzle over your finished dish.
FAQ
Q: Is marinated tofu a good source of protein for a vegetarian diet
A: Absolutely. Tofu is an excellent plant-based protein source. A single 1/2 cup serving of this marinated tofu provides 14 grams of protein, making it a fantastic and flavorful way to meet your daily protein needs.
Q: What type of tofu is best for this marinade recipe
A: The best tofu depends on your final dish. Extra-firm tofu is ideal as it holds its shape well for cubing, pan-frying, or grilling. Firm tofu is also a great all-purpose choice. Medium-firm tofu works well if you plan to crumble it for dishes like vegetarian scrambles or fillings.
Q: How long can I store marinated tofu in the refrigerator
A: Once marinated, you can store the tofu in its marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavor will continue to deepen over time.
Q: Do I really need to press the tofu before marinating
A: For the most flavorful results, yes. Pressing tofu removes excess water, allowing it to act like a sponge and soak up more of the delicious marinade. Simply wrap the block in paper towels, place something heavy on top, and press for at least 30 minutes.
