Vegan Blackened Tofu with Cheesy Grits
Healthy baked blackened tofu served with super cheesy easy grits. The ultimate comfort food.
Healthy baked blackened tofu served with super cheesy easy grits. The ultimate comfort food.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 block(15oz.) extra firm tofu
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme dried
- 1 1/4 cups non dairy milk i used almond milk
- 1 cup grits quick cooking
- 1/4 cup vegan butter i used earth balance
- Carbohydrate 48.8048306626502 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 2.33153165960885 g
- Fiber 4.6821653697082 g
- Protein 9.56395633725092 g
- Saturated Fat 0.307900592413318 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (191g)
- Sodium 42.8093023557187 mg
- Sugar 44.122665292942 g
- Trans Fat 0.388352960322769 g
- Calories 243 calories
Step-by-step
- Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes (longer is better).
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Cut tofu into cubes and place in a bowl.
- Toss tofu with olive oil and mustard.
- Sprinkle spices onto tofu and toss to coat.
- Place tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While tofu bakes, make grits: whisk together water, non-dairy milk, nutritional yeast, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then whisk in grits.
- Reduce heat and simmer until thick (10-20 minutes).
- Stir in vegan butter and adjust seasonings.
- Serve tofu and grits immediately, optionally with greens and hot sauce.
A Weeknight Vegan Delight: Blackened Tofu and Cheesy Grits
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy, delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, the last thing I want is a complicated recipe that requires hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of quick, flavorful meals that don't sacrifice taste or nutrition. This Vegan Blackened Tofu with Cheesy Grits is a perfect example. It's ready in under an hour, and it’s a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family loves – even my picky eaters!
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The blackened tofu is incredibly easy to prepare; simply press the tofu to remove excess water (a crucial step for achieving that satisfyingly crispy texture!), toss it with a vibrant blend of spices, and bake it until golden brown. The cheesy grits are equally straightforward. I use quick-cooking grits for ultimate convenience, whisking them together with non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast for that irresistibly creamy, cheesy flavor. No need for fancy cheeses or complicated techniques; this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder can elevate the smoky flavor of the tofu. You can also customize the grits by adding herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. And don't be afraid to get creative with your sides! A simple salad, roasted vegetables, or even some sautéed greens make perfect accompaniments to this hearty meal.
This recipe is more than just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create a truly satisfying and delicious meal. It’s a recipe that’s become a regular in our household, a comforting go-to when I need a healthy and flavorful meal on the table quickly. The best part? It’s completely vegan, making it a fantastic option for anyone following a plant-based diet or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their week.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy tofu: Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. You can also broil the tofu for the last few minutes of cooking for extra crispiness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the tofu for an extra kick.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of your favorite plant-based cream to the grits for a richer, creamier texture.
- Add some veggies: Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers and add them to the grits for added nutrients and flavor.
- Meal prep friendly: The tofu and grits can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making this a perfect meal-prep option for busy days.
This Vegan Blackened Tofu with Cheesy Grits is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, flavorful cooking. It's a reminder that healthy, delicious meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the joy of a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any busy weeknight.
Enjoy!
