Grilled Tofu with Lotus Root

Instructions

1. 1

   Wrap pressed tofu slabs in clean kitchen towels and place on a plate. Set a cutting board on top and weight it down with cans or books for 10 minutes to extract excess moisture.

   Tip: Pressing tofu helps it absorb the glaze better and creates a crispier exterior when grilled.

2. 2

   While tofu presses, whisk together miso paste, rice vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and water in a small bowl until smooth. Set the glaze aside.

   Tip: Warming the miso paste slightly in warm water before whisking makes it easier to combine with other ingredients.

3. 3

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using a grill pan, heat it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.

   Tip: Let the grill get hot enough so the tofu and lotus root develop nice caramelized marks without sticking.

4. 4

   Remove tofu from towels and lightly brush both sides with 1.5 tablespoons of oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

   Tip: Don't over-oil the tofu; just enough to prevent sticking is ideal.

5. 5

   Toss lotus root slices with remaining 1.5 tablespoons of oil and a light seasoning of salt and pepper in a separate bowl.

   Tip: Lotus root has a delicate flavor, so minimal seasoning here allows the natural taste to shine through.

6. 6

   Grill tofu slabs for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown grill marks appear. Transfer to a serving platter.

   Tip: Avoid moving the tofu around too much on the grill to ensure proper browning and caramelization.

7. 7

   Grill lotus root slices for 3-4 minutes per side, working in batches if necessary, until they are tender with light charring at the edges.

   Tip: Lotus root cooks quickly, so keep a close eye to prevent burning while still achieving a nice golden color.

8. 8

   Arrange grilled tofu and lotus root on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the miso glaze, allowing it to coat both components evenly.

   Tip: For a warmer dish, gently warm the glaze in a small saucepan before drizzling.

9. 9

   Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the dish. Serve immediately while still warm.

   Tip: The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and visual appeal; toast them lightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor if desired.