Description
Garlic Herb Butter Tofu is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring crispy golden tofu cubes sautéed in a fragrant mixture of garlic, herbs, and butter. This recipe combines the richness of butter with aromatic thyme, rosemary, oregano, and a hint of paprika, enhanced by soy sauce and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Perfect as a protein-rich vegetarian main or side, it’s ready in just 25 minutes and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess water, which helps it become crispy when cooked. Cut the pressed tofu into evenly sized cubes and set aside.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy crust. Remove the cooked tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Herb Butter: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the Herbs: Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika (if using), soy sauce, and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a minute to combine and release the herbs’ flavors.
- Toss the Tofu: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet and toss them thoroughly in the garlic herb butter sauce to coat evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the tofu for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot as a delicious, savory vegetarian dish.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is crucial to achieving a crispy texture; use a tofu press or wrap tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.
- For a vegan version, substitute unsalted butter with plant-based vegan butter or oil.
- Feel free to add your favorite fresh herbs if dried herbs are not available, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- The paprika is optional but adds a slight smoky flavor and color to the dish.
- Adjust soy sauce and lemon juice to taste based on preferred saltiness and acidity.
