What is Tofu?

This is something I really like to eat and so I've been exploring different ways to eat it. I've found the nicest and easiest way to cook it and the experiments with flavours are endless. Here's just one way with the flavours and cooking method in my version of Bang Bang Tofu (sourced this recipe from This Savoury Vegan)...

Google tells me "Tofu, or bean curd, is a food made by coagulating soy milk and pressing it into solid blocks, similar to cheese making. It's a versatile, protein-rich staple from East and Southeast Asian cuisines that is often used as a meat substitute in Western cooking. Made from soybeans, tofu comes in different textures, from creamy silken to firm blocks, and its mild flavor allows it to absorb the tastes of surrounding ingredients."

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

400g Firm Tofu

1 tbsp Olive Oil

1 tbsp Tamari

1 tbsp Cornflour

1 tsp ground black pepper

1/4 cup Vegan Mayonnaise

1 tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar

2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Spring Onions for serving

Sesame Seeds for serving

Method:

1. Remove the tofu from the packaging, drain and place between paper towel to absorb the liquid for about 30 minutes. Remove the paper towel and then cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces.

2. Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.

3. In a bowl, add the tamari, olive oil, cornflour and pepper and whisk to combine. Add the tofu and gently toss to coat. Spread onto the baking paper making sure to separate the tofu. Place in the oven and cook for 25 minutes, flipping halfway (I sometimes don't and it's still nice and crispy).

4. While the tofu is cooking, prepare the sauce. in a bowl combine the mayo, rice vinegar and parsley in a bowl. Stir to mix and set aside.

5. When the tofu is golden remove from the oven and add to the sauce. Toss to bring it all together and serve with rice, spring onions and sesame seeds.

6. Delish!