Caramelized Tofu with Pecans Recipe
I love this dish! It is a healthy meal in one pan, all prepared in 20 minutes! A GREAT weeknight meal for vegetarians and carnivores.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm or extra firm tofu, cut into
- 1-2 inch pieces in length/height and ½ inch
- thick.
- ¼ cup tamari or shoyu (wheat free
- organic tamari) - soy sauce works too
- ¼ cup water
- 2 Tbs. olive oil
- A big pinch of sea or kosher salt
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup of pecans, toasted* and roughly
- chopped
- ¼ cup natural cane sugar, I use fine-grain
- or coconut sugar
- ¼ tsp. chili flakes
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (or parsley)
Instructions
- 1
Make sure your pecans are toasted before you start this recipe.*
- 2
Mix together the tamari and water in a flat dish, lay the tofu pieces in this mixture while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Make sure that the pieces are covered or turn them several times. The tofu can marinate for up to one hour (or as little as five minutes). Drain tofu and pat dry with a paper towel.
- 3
Heat a large fry pan on med-high heat. Add oil. Add tofu in one layer (you can do this in 2 batches if necessary), add a big pinch of salt. Cook until golden brown on all sides. Add back any tofu that you had removed during the cooking time.
- 4
Add pecans, garlic and chili flakes, cook for a minute or so.
- 5
Sprinkle sugar all over, cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat. Empty tofu mixture to a plate, cover lightly with foil. Serves 4 *to toast pecans, place in a dry non-stick fry pan on med heat, toss several times until toasted. It takes about 6-10 minutes.
Tips & Storage
- How to Store
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Make It Vegan
- Many vegetarian recipes can be made vegan by substituting dairy with plant-based alternatives. Check the ingredients and swap as needed.
- Nutrition Tip
- Pair with a whole grain or legume for a complete protein. This makes the meal more filling and nutritionally balanced.
You Might Also Like
More vegetarian recipes→
Vegetarian
Marinated Tofu
Having a block of marinated tofu in the fridge that’s ready to eat makes me happy! I snack on it as is or use it to top salads or as a filler for an all-vegetable wrap.
June 9, 2022
Vegetarian
Traditional Vegetarian Pad Thai
This recipe is a very traditional Pad Thai. It is simple in taste and not loaded with a goopy sauce. Tamarind paste is what gives it the authentic flavour. Tamarind paste can be found in most Asian grocery stores and some specialty stores.
August 25, 2021
Vegetarian
Mushroom Bacon (Vegan)
Love the taste or smell of bacon but don’t eat it for one reason or another? Well, your time has come! This vegan bacon recipe hits all the right spots. Use it in a sandwich, on a salad or alongside your eggs.
August 5, 2021
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Caramelized Tofu with Pecans?
This Caramelized Tofu with Pecans recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 15 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
What goes well with this caramelized tofu with pecans?
This recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try it as part of a complete meal with complementary sides, salads, or proteins.