Roasted Tofu with Celery
Prep
20 mins
Cook
35 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just about an hour and uses pantry staples you probably already have on hand. The crispy roasted tofu pairs beautifully with tender celery in a ginger garlic sauce that's savory, slightly sweet, and totally addictive. Tofu is packed with plant based protein and all nine essential amino acids, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious. Best of all, it's budget friendly and requires minimal prep work, so you can have a restaurant quality meal on your table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz)extra-firm tofu(pressed and cubed)
- 6celery stalks(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 3 tablespoonsolive oil
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tablespoonfresh ginger(grated)
- 3 tablespoonssoy sauce
- 1 tablespoonrice vinegar
- 1 tablespoonmaple syrup
- 1 teaspoonsesame oil
- 2 tablespoonscornstarch
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- 2green onions(sliced for garnish)
- 1 tablespoonsesame seeds(for garnish)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Press the tofu block between paper towels or a clean cloth for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes and toss with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Tip: Pressing tofu is essential for achieving a crispy exterior when roasting.
- 2
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 3
Spread the cornstarch-coated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy on all sides.
Tip: Stir halfway through roasting to ensure even browning on all sides.
- 4
While the tofu roasts, prepare the celery by cutting each stalk into 2-inch pieces on a slight diagonal for better caramelization.
- 5
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and sesame oil to create the glaze.
- 6
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the celery pieces and sauté for 8-10 minutes until they begin to soften and develop light golden spots.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for better caramelization.
- 7
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the celery and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then pour in the prepared glaze and stir well to coat.
- 8
Remove the roasted tofu from the oven and gently fold it into the celery mixture, tossing carefully to combine without breaking the tofu cubes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on medium heat to meld the flavors.
Tip: Fold gently to maintain the crispy exterior of the tofu cubes.
- 9
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Tip: Serve immediately while the tofu is still warm and crispy.
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