Chinese Lemon Tofu

Chinese Lemon Tofu is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon with the hearty texture of tofu. This recipe is a delightful introduction to vegan and vegetarian cuisine, showcasing how tofu can absorb flavors while maintaining its own unique character. The crispy exterior of the baked tofu, combined with a sweet and tangy lemon sauce, creates an appealing dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. Served over a bed of rice and garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, this meal is both delicious and satisfying. Whether you are a long-time tofu lover or trying it for the first time, Chinese Lemon Tofu is sure to become a favorite.

In addition to being tasty, this dish is versatile. You can adjust the level of sweetness or tanginess according to your preference. With simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe provides a healthy way to enjoy a classic Chinese flavor profile. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this delightful meal!

Ingredients about Chinese Lemon Tofu

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 14-ounce block extra firm tofu, pressed
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons avocado oil (for sautéing)
• 2 green onions, divided into white/green portions and sliced
• 3-5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 knob of ginger, peeled and finely minced or grated
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium tamari or soy sauce (for sauce)
• 1/4 cup cane sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch (for sauce)
• 1/3 cup imitation chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you are in need of alternatives or have certain dietary preferences, you can easily modify this recipe. For example, if you do not have avocado oil on hand, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil. Tamari can be replaced with regular soy sauce if you are not gluten-sensitive. If you’d like to avoid sugar, you can use maple syrup or stevia for a different sweetening option. Fresh ginger can be substituted with ground ginger if necessary, although the flavor will differ slightly. Lastly, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure that all your ingredients, especially the soy sauce, are labeled as gluten-free.

How to Make Chinese Lemon Tofu

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your tofu will bake evenly and get crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the tofu

With your oven preheating, take your block of extra firm tofu and drain it well. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, which helps it achieve the best texture. You can wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a weight on top for around 15-30 minutes. Once pressed, tear the tofu into bite-sized chunks or cut it into small cubes for even cooking and flavor absorption.

Step 3: Toss the tofu with seasonings

In a large bowl, add the pressed tofu chunks. Pour in 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and 1 tablespoon of low-sodium tamari or soy sauce. Gently toss the tofu to make sure each piece is coated in the oil and sauce. Next, sprinkle the 1/4 cup of cornstarch over the tofu, tossing again until it’s well-coated. This will help create that appetizing crispy texture when baked.

Step 4: Bake the tofu

Transfer the coated tofu to your prepared baking sheet. Spread the pieces out in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. Place the baking sheet on the top rack of your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Halfway through baking, around the 15-minute mark, flip the tofu pieces to encourage even crispiness on all sides.

Step 5: Prepare the lemon sauce

While the tofu is baking, you can prepare the flavorful lemon sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the broth, fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce, 1/4 cup of cane sugar, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Make sure the sugar dissolves fully before moving on to the cooking step.

Step 6: Sauté aromatics

In a skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the white parts of the sliced green onions, minced garlic, and ginger to the pan. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some freshly ground black pepper. Sauté these aromatics for about 60 seconds, until you can smell their strong fragrances.

Step 7: Add and cook the lemon sauce

Pour the prepared lemon sauce into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Allow it to come to a simmer. Stir occasionally, letting it cook for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 8: Combine the tofu with the sauce

Once your tofu is finished baking and has a lovely golden-brown exterior, remove it from the oven. Add the baked tofu directly into the skillet with the lemon sauce. Gently toss to ensure that all the tofu pieces are coated well with the sauce. As a final touch, stir in the lemon zest and allow everything to cook together for an additional minute.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your Chinese Lemon Tofu over a bed of rice. Top with green onion slices and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Squeeze a little more fresh lemon juice or serve with lemon slices on the side for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Serve Chinese Lemon Tofu

Best ways to serve Chinese Lemon Tofu

Chinese Lemon Tofu is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve it directly over fluffy white rice or jasmine rice to soak up the zesty sauce. You could also use brown rice for more fiber, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Serving suggestions or pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed or sautéed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas. You can also enjoy it alongside a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. For those who enjoy a little spice, consider adding a drizzle of chili oil or serve it with a side of your favorite spicy dipping sauce.

How to Store Chinese Lemon Tofu

Proper storage methods

If you have leftovers, store your Chinese Lemon Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume it within 5 days for the best quality. Make sure to keep the tofu and sauce mixed together for optimal flavor retention.

Tips for reheating or freezing

When reheating, it is best to warm your tofu in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to regain its crispiness. You can add a splash of water or broth to help steam it if it becomes too dry. It’s better to avoid the microwave, as it may make the tofu soggy. If you choose to freeze leftovers, be aware that the texture may change. To freeze, place tofu in a freezer-safe container, but be cautious as the crust may not be as crispy when thawed.

Tips to Make Chinese Lemon Tofu

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is not pressing the tofu enough. If tofu has too much moisture, it won’t crisp up properly when baked. Ensure that your tofu is patted dry before seasoning. Another issue can arise from overcrowding the baking sheet. Make sure the pieces are spread out to promote even baking. Lastly, balance the sauce properly – if it’s too sweet or too sour, it can overwhelm the dish.

Helpful tips for better results

To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the tofu in the tamari and oil for an hour or overnight before baking for a deeper taste. Additionally, freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will elevate the dish’s freshness, so avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible. Lastly, always taste your sauce before adding the tofu; this allows you to adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Variation of Chinese Lemon Tofu

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You can easily customize Chinese Lemon Tofu. For a spicy version, add some red pepper flakes or siracha to the lemon sauce. If you prefer a nutty flavor, incorporate some crushed peanuts or cashews as a topping. You can also swap out tofu for tempeh or seitan for a different plant-based protein source.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those on a low-carb diet, consider using cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles) in place of regular rice. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, choose low-sodium vegetarian broth and limit the amount of soy sauce in the recipe. For gluten sensitivity, ensure your tamari and broth are gluten-free.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your dish is too overpowering in flavor, you can dilute it with a bit more vegetable broth or water. If the tofu is not crispy, try baking it a bit longer or increasing the oven temperature slightly. Remember that oven temperatures can vary, so keeping an eye on the tofu is crucial.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and bake the tofu in advance. Keep the sauce refrigerated and combine it with the tofu just before serving to maintain the crispiness. However, it is often best enjoyed fresh for the ideal texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you don’t have certain ingredients, there are many alternatives. For example, if you don’t have cane sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well. If you can’t find cornstarch, arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can serve as a good substitute. Use your creativity based on what you have available!

Enjoy making and savoring your Chinese Lemon Tofu, a dish that’s not only healthy but also packed full of flavor.

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