Saving marine life, one block of tofu at a time. That is the beauty behind this recipe Vegan BBQ: Over 100 Recipes for Smoky and Satisfying Plant-Based BBQ. It calls for a smoker to achieve depth of flavor and texture, but makes it totally worth it by transforming a block of tofu into a perfect fish filet. Not a smoker? Check out this guide to get around it.
do you want:
1 (12.3-ounce) block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 sheets nori, divided
1 cup vegetable broth
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Half a cup of beet juice
2 tablespoons white miso paste
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon of salt
Half a teaspoon of turmeric
½ cup cornstarch, more if needed
2 tablespoons light oil, for frying
Half a cup of teriyaki sauce or marinade
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Vegan BBQ: Over 100 Recipes for Smoky and Satisfying Plant-Based BBQ
what do you do:
- Cut the tofu in half lengthwise, then in half lengthwise again, making four long, skinny strips of tofu. Take a piece and place a chopstick on both sides of the tofu so as not to cut all the way through. Slice the tofu about â…›-inch apart repeatedly to achieve a flaky texture. Repeat with other tofu slices, handling carefully.
- In a blender, add 1 sheet of shredded nori, vegetable broth, vinegar, beet juice, miso, garlic cloves, salt, and turmeric. Blend until smooth. In a zippered bag or dish, place the tofu and cover with the marinade. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- In a wide bowl, add the cornstarch. Cut the remaining nori into strips roughly the same size as the tofu pieces. Gently remove a piece of tofu from the marinade (careful it will break up). Dip a strip of nori in the marinade, then stick to the back of the tofu. Dredge tofu with nori attached to cornstarch, covering all sides. Repeat with remaining pieces.
- In a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat, heat oil. When hot, add tofu. Fry for 2 to 4 minutes per side, until lightly golden all over. Transfer to a baking dish and arrange in a single layer. Fried tofu with teriyaki marinade.
- Set your smoker on low heat for a 10 minute smoke session. Smoke the salmon for about 10 minutes to infuse some flavor. Remove from smoker and serve with lemon wedges.