Blackberry Glazed Tofu with Black Pepper & Chili

Introduction

When you first think of tofu, the image that comes to mind may not always be exciting, but this Blackberry Glazed Tofu with Black Pepper & Chili is a game-changer. The combination of crispy, golden tofu coated in a sweet and spicy blackberry glaze offers an irresistible balance of flavors. This dish brings together the tanginess of blackberries, the savory depth of soy sauce, the kick of black pepper and chili flakes, and a hint of ginger and garlic for added complexity. Whether you are a seasoned tofu lover or someone who has never been a fan, this recipe will likely convert you.

I made this for my family, and they were pleasantly surprised by how satisfying and flavorful it turned out. The crispy texture of the tofu combined with the rich, slightly tangy, and spicy blackberry glaze made each bite exciting and delicious. Paired with steamed rice and a sprinkle of black pepper, it quickly became a favorite weeknight dinner. If you’re looking for a healthy and hearty vegan dish with a burst of flavor, this recipe is a must-try!

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Ingredients

For the Tofu:

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Blackberry Glaze:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

• Start by cutting the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
• Place the tofu cubes in a bowl and toss them with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This step is essential for achieving a crispy texture on the tofu when cooking.

2. Cook the Tofu

• In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add the tofu cubes and cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Blackberry Glaze

• In the same skillet, add the blackberries and cook over medium heat until they begin to break down, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, chili flakes, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. The glaze should have a glossy, thick consistency at this point.

4. Combine the Tofu and Glaze

• Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and gently toss it in the blackberry glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the glaze and heat through.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more chili flakes or black pepper for extra heat, or a bit more soy sauce for saltiness.

5. Serve

• Serve the Blackberry Glazed Tofu over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Garnish with extra black pepper or fresh blackberries for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in each bite!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cup (tofu + glaze)
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

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How to Serve

Serve this Blackberry Glazed Tofu with the following options:

• Over steamed rice: This pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sauce.
• With quinoa: For a gluten-free alternative, quinoa adds a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• With sautéed vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
• Topped with fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a bright note.
• On a salad: Serve the tofu over a bed of greens, like spinach or arugula, for a light, fresh take on the dish.

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Additional Tips

1. Press the Tofu Properly: For the best crispy texture, make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. You can use a tofu press or wrap it in paper towels and place something heavy on top for about 15 minutes.
2. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add extra honey or maple syrup to taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the chili flakes.
3. Make it Vegan: To keep this dish vegan, opt for maple syrup instead of honey. The maple syrup pairs nicely with the blackberries, giving the glaze a subtle depth of flavor.
4. Use Frozen Blackberries: If fresh blackberries aren’t available, frozen blackberries work just as well for the glaze.
5. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the glaze if needed.

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Recipe Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to the skillet along with the tofu for more color and nutrients.
2. Make it Spicy: For a more intense heat, increase the amount of chili flakes or add some fresh chili peppers to the glaze.
3. Use a Different Fruit: If blackberries aren’t available, try raspberries, blueberries, or even a combination of fruits to make the glaze.
4. Switch Up the Protein: If tofu isn’t your favorite, try substituting tempeh, seitan, or even chicken for a different texture.
5. Add a Crunch: Top the dish with some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Rice: Serve the blackberry glazed tofu over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with Wine: A glass of crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine would complement the flavors of this dish.
• Side Dish Options: Pair with a side of sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the sweetness of the blackberry glaze with some bitterness.
• As a Snack: Serve the tofu as a snack or appetizer for a party, especially with some extra blackberries on the side for dipping.

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Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Leftovers of the blackberry glazed tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to avoid drying it out.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked tofu (without the glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the skillet before adding the glaze.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use firm tofu for this recipe?
   Yes, firm tofu is perfect for this dish as it holds its shape well and crisps up nicely.
2. How do I press tofu?
   To press tofu, wrap it in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top (like a cast-iron skillet) for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I use frozen blackberries?
   Yes, frozen blackberries work perfectly in the glaze. Simply cook them until they break down, just like fresh berries.
4. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
   Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as gluten-free alternatives to soy sauce.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   Yes! Bell peppers, snow peas, or spinach would make excellent additions. Stir them in with the tofu or cook them separately and add them on top when serving.
6. How do I adjust the spice level?
   You can increase or decrease the amount of chili flakes in the glaze to suit your spice tolerance.
7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, the tofu can be pre-cooked and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and add the glaze.
8. What is the best way to serve this dish?
   Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the tofu and glaze.
9. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup?
   Yes, agave nectar or brown sugar would work well as substitutes.
10. How long can I store leftovers?
    Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, consume within this time frame.

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Conclusion

The Blackberry Glazed Tofu with Black Pepper & Chili is an exciting fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will impress both tofu lovers and skeptics alike. With its crispy tofu, flavorful glaze, and the option to add your favorite vegetables, this dish is versatile enough to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and enjoy the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and tang with every bite!

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