Tofu is an important ingredient in vegan diets with various ways to incorporate it into meals. Here are five creative ways to cook with tofu: Tofu Scramble, Tofu Burger, Tofu Banh Mi, Tofu Chocolate Mousse, and Tofu Pad Thai. Tofu Scramble is a savory dish perfect for breakfast or brunch while the Tofu Burger is a healthy vegan alternative to traditional burgers. Tofu Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich with marinated tofu instead of pork. Tofu Chocolate Mousse is a vegan version with creamy texture and a rich taste. Lastly, Tofu Pad Thai is a protein-packed, flavorful, and satisfying classic Thai dish.

5 Creative Ways To Cook With Tofu In A Vegan Diet

Tofu is a staple in a vegan diet, and has become increasingly popular even among non-vegan eaters. Tofu is a versatile ingredient and can be used in numerous dishes, from savory to sweet. Here are five creative ways to cook with tofu:

1. Tofu Scramble

Tofu scramble is a vegan version of scrambled eggs. This savory dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch, and can be customized to your liking. Here’s how you can make a tofu scramble:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onions, peppers, and mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are soft.
4. Crumble the tofu into the skillet and stir until it resembles scrambled eggs.
5. Add turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and stir until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Tofu Burger

Tofu burgers are a healthy and delicious vegan alternative to traditional burgers. They are perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weekday dinner. Here’s how you can make a tofu burger:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess water.
2. Crumble the tofu into a bowl.
3. Add the bread crumbs, mushrooms, onions, carrots, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and mix well.
4. Form the mixture into patties (makes four).
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little bit of oil.
6. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings!

3. Tofu Banh Mi

Banh mi is a delicious Vietnamese sandwich that is traditionally made with pork. However, this vegan version uses marinated tofu for an equally delicious taste. Here’s how you can make a tofu banh mi:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey or agave nectar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 baguette, sliced in half horizontally
• Pickled vegetables (carrots, cucumber, daikon, radish)
• Cilantro and sliced jalapenos for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or agave nectar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add tofu to the marinade and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the tofu for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
4. Toast the baguette slices until crispy.
5. Assemble the sandwich with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and sliced jalapenos.
6. Serve and enjoy!

4. Tofu Chocolate Mousse

Tofu can also be used in sweet dishes, especially in desserts like chocolate mousse. This vegan version is creamy, rich, and delicious. Here’s how you can make a tofu chocolate mousse:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of silken tofu
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 2 tbsp agave nectar or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave.
2. Add the melted chocolate, tofu, almond milk, agave nectar or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt into a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture into ramekins or dessert cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled with some vegan whipped cream on top.

5. Tofu Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a classic Thai dish that usually contains shrimp or chicken. This vegan version uses tofu as a protein source and is just as flavorful and satisfying. Here’s how you can make a tofu pad thai:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 lb rice noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped scallions
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to the package directions and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and lime juice to make the sauce.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic, scallions, bell peppers, and carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are soft.
5. Add the tofu and bean sprouts and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the cooked rice noodles and the sauce until well combined.
7. Top with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Conclusion

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless dishes, from savory to sweet. These five creative ways to cook with tofu will definitely add some excitement and variety to your vegan diet. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger or a sweet chocolate mousse, tofu has got you covered!