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Lemon Pepper Tofu Recipe

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★★★★★

4.3 from 40 reviews

This Lemon Pepper Tofu recipe offers a delicious, protein-packed vegan dinner option that’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors. Crispy tofu pieces are coated in a savory, tangy lemon pepper sauce that perfectly balances zestiness and subtle heat, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu Breading:

  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons Nutritional Yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme Leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 block (450g) Super Firm Tofu, cut into triangles
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil, for the pan

Lemon Pepper Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup Vegan Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • Juice of 1 Lemon (3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
  • 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional for spice)

Utensils:

  • Lemon Zester
  • Lemon Juicer

Instructions

  1. Prepare Tofu: Remove the tofu from its package, pat dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, and slice it into thin rectangle shapes for even cooking and better sauce absorption.
  2. Make Lemon Pepper Sauce: In a measuring cup or bowl, combine vegan chicken broth, lemon juice, maple syrup, cracked black pepper, cornstarch, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk the mixture thoroughly until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. Mix Tofu Breading: In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch, nutritional yeast, dried thyme leaves, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful coating for the tofu.
  4. Cook Tofu: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil to coat the bottom. Dip each tofu piece into the breading mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Tap off any excess breading and place the tofu carefully into the hot pan. Fry the tofu pieces, flipping occasionally, until they develop a crispy golden-brown crust on all sides.
  5. Combine Sauce and Tofu: Give the lemon pepper sauce a quick stir to ensure it is well mixed. Pour the sauce into the pan with the tofu and immediately turn off the heat. Let the sauce thicken and coat the tofu pieces as it gently heats from the residual pan warmth, which should take a few minutes.
  6. Serve: Transfer the tofu and sauce onto plates and serve immediately alongside your favorite vegetables and either rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures!

Notes

  • Use super firm tofu for the best texture and easy handling during frying.
  • Patting tofu dry is essential to help the breading stick well and to achieve crispiness.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spiciness according to your preference.
  • The lemon pepper sauce thickens as it cools; serve promptly for optimal texture.
  • This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
  • For gluten-free version, ensure the nutritional yeast and broth are certified gluten-free.

Keywords: Lemon pepper tofu, vegan tofu recipe, crispy tofu, tofu dinner, easy vegan recipes, healthy vegan meals, plant-based protein

Find it online: https://epicrecipebox.com/lemon-pepper-tofu-recipe/