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Maple BBQ Tofu - Sweet and Sticky

The world is a much better and happier place when you're genuinely excited and delighted to eat your veggies, beans, legumes and in this case specifically, tofu. I mean, that's the way it's supposed to be no? That the food that brings us health, energy and clarity should also bring us joy. 

Worry not, this recipe will certainly transfer tofu, something many mistakenly consider as bland, into one of the sexist dishes ever. They're perfectly golden brown, with a tender and moist center and crispy crust, glazed with a thick, sticky, sweet and umami sauce. The sauce was so sticky that it was literally stringy in the pan while I was cooking!

This recipe is super simple too. No marinating, no coating, no fuss. And mostly importantly, everything can be done in one non-stick pan!

There are so many exciting ways to eat tofu, you might also want to try Sweet and Sour Pineapple Tofu, Maple Sriracha Tofu, or Tofu Sushi Sandwich.

I served these tofu triangles with quinoa pilaf, grilled peach and other veggies.


INGREDIENTS:

1 block extra firm tofu

2 tablespoon tamari/soy sauce

1 tablespoon coconut amino

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon arrowroot powder/corn starch

Oil for cooking


TO MAKE:

- Drain and dry the tofu, gently wrap the block in a couple of kitchen towels and squeeze out excessive water; (TIIP: you can also cut open the tofu container and drain the water, then let the tofu sit in the empty container for 30 minutes - 1 hour, the tofu block will naturally let out the water inside)

- Cut tofu into 1/2 inch thick triangles;

- In a large non stick frying pan, heat a large drizzle of oil over medium heat, place the tofu triangles in the pan in a single layer, pan fry for about 3 minutes, flip side, fry till both sides are golden brown;

- While tofu is frying, whisk together all the rest of the ingredients;

- Once tofu pieces are golden brown on all sides, slowly pour in the sauce mixture, quickly toss tofu to coat every single piece, then turn off the heat but don't take the pan off the stove, the remaining heat will continue to thicken the sauce, keep stirring and tossing so all tofu pieces are glazed evenly;

- Transfer into a plate, sprinkle on some sesame seeds, serve immediately. Enjoy!

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