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Game-Changing Soy-Ginger Marinated Tofu – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Game-Changing Soy-Ginger Marinated Tofu

Tired of bland tofu? This soy-ginger marinade infuses every bite of tofu with a mouthwatering blend of umami, zesty ginger, and aromatic garlic. Learn how to create a delicious, plant-based centerpiece for any meal, whether you prefer it soft and saucy or golden and crispy.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tofu
  • 1 block (14-16 oz / 400-450g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) vegetable oil (for crispy option)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) cornstarch (for crispy option)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chopped cabbage or spinach (optional)
  • For the Soy-Ginger Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml / 1.5 fl oz) soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml / 1.5 fl oz) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons (10 ml / 0.3 fl oz) rice or cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml / 0.2 fl oz) fresh ginger root, grated
  • 2 fresh scallions (green onions), diced
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml / 0.2 fl oz) sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Pinch of hot pepper flakes (optional)
  • For the best texture, always press your tofu before marinating. This allows it to absorb more flavor and become firmer.
  • To get a perfect crispy sear, ensure your pan is hot before adding the tofu and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Feel free to customize the marinade by adding a teaspoon of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness or a squirt of sriracha for extra heat.

Method
 

  1. First, prepare the tofu. If you haven't already, press the tofu for at least 15-20 minutes to remove excess water.
  2. Slice it into ½-inch thick pieces.
  3. In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together all the marinade : soy sauce, vegetable oil, vinegar, grated ginger, scallions, sesame oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and hot pepper flakes.
  4. Add the tofu slices to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated.
  5. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, but 30 minutes or longer will result in a deeper flavor.
  6. Choose your cooking method
  7. For Soft, Simmered Tofu: Pour the tofu and all the marinade into a frying pan.
  8. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, until heated through.
  9. For Crispy, Pan-Fried Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
  10. Remove the tofu slices from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off (reserve the marinade).
  11. Pat the slices dry and lightly coat them in cornstarch.
  12. Place the tofu in the hot pan in a single layer and cook for 2-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  13. If using, add the chopped cabbage or spinach to the pan. For the crispy method, you can add the reserved marinade back to the pan with the vegetables.
  14. Simmer and stir for another 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are wilted and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  15. Serve immediately over a bed of warm cooked rice with a side of your favorite vegetables.
  16. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for good flavor, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for an even more savory result.
  17. Don't discard the leftover marinade!
  18. Simmer it in the pan for a minute or two to thicken it into a delicious sauce to pour over your dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 12gFat: 22g

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