Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the green onions and red bell pepper (if using), and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Combine the Tofu and Sauce:
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the top. Toss everything gently to coat the tofu in the sauce, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 more minutes to absorb the flavors. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve:
Once the tofu is well-coated and heated through, remove from the pan. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: Serve Black Pepper Tofu over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles for a filling meal. Pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad to add more texture and variety.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore its crispy texture, or in the microwave if you prefer a softer consistency.
Adding Vegetables: Feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bok choy, or broccoli, for added nutrition and color. You can sauté them with the tofu or cook them separately and serve alongside.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, you can add chili flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers to the sauce for a fiery kick.
Variants:
Sweet and Spicy Black Pepper Tofu:
For those who love a sweet-and-spicy combination, try adding a tablespoon of chili paste or Sriracha sauce to the recipe. This will give your tofu a bold, zesty flavor profile with an extra kick of heat.
Garlic Black Pepper Tofu:
If you’re a garlic lover, double the garlic in this recipe. You can even add roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spicy black pepper sauce.
Baked Black Pepper Tofu:
For a healthier alternative to pan-frying, try baking the coated tofu. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Then, toss with the sauce as directed.
Black Pepper Tofu Stir Fry:
For an even more vibrant dish, create a full stir fry by adding vegetables like snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet before adding the tofu. This adds color, texture, and extra flavor to your meal.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?
A1: It’s best to use firm tofu for this recipe, as it holds up better when crispy and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Soft tofu will break apart and not achieve the desired texture.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Yes! Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative in place of regular soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free.
Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
A3: To increase the spice level, you can add more black pepper, or include chili paste, red pepper flakes, or fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
Q4: Can I freeze Black Pepper Tofu leftovers?
A4: While tofu can be frozen, the texture may change after thawing, and it might not stay as crispy. If you plan to freeze leftovers, we recommend freezing the tofu and sauce separately and reheating in a pan.
Q5: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A5: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. When ready to use, just reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked tofu.
Conclusion:
Black Pepper Tofu is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for tofu lovers or anyone looking to try a new plant-based meal. With its crispy exterior and savory black pepper sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and adaptable to suit your tastes. Whether you enjoy it spicy, garlicky, or with a touch of sweetness, this recipe is easy to customize and sure to satisfy!
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