Tofu Two Ways

Basic Tofu Recipe Two Ways

This basic recipe can be transformed into almost anything. The tofu can be baked parmesan style, dipped in ketchup as a nugget or added to a salad instead of chicken. Disregard your preconceived notions about tofu and give this recipe a try. It is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

2 packages of firm tofu
1/2 c italian salad dressing
2 tbsp hot sauce
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tbsp poultry seasoning
olive oil
salt/pepper
3 eggs
1 c flour
2 c bread crumbs

Slice tofu into uniform pieces. Depending on what you are using it for you can slice it as big, small or in any shape. For serving as tofu nuggets i would slice similar to the picture. If making a tofu cutlet I would slice each brick horizontally in half for a large flat piece. If adding to a salad or pasta i would cut the nuggets in half or in thirds to make bite size pieces.

Once sliced uniformly lay out onto a paper towel lined sheet pan. Cover with more paper towel, another sheet pan and some large cans or something heavy, let sit for 15-30 minutes depending on the size of the tofu pieces.

While the tofu is draining mix the chopped garlic, italian dressing, hot sauce and salt and pepper in a shallow flat dish. Once the tofu is drained add to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
Now comes the two ways part. One way to finish is by breading and baking. This will make a traditional tofu nugget. One year old and mother approved. Simply serve with some ketchup, BBQ sauce or honey mustard. This is a great alternative to chicken nuggets. The other finishing technique is pan frying. Cooking in the pan will give the tofu a nice crust on the outside with out the breading. 

While the tofu is marinating pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees and set up breading stations. To get a nice crust I like the basic flour, egg, bread crumb breading. Once tofu has marinated wipe off excess marinade and add to the flour. Divide the tofu in half and continue the breading process with one half and place on a sheet pan coated in olive oil. Once the tofu is all on the sheet pan bake for 30-40 min flipping half way through till golden brown. While the tofu is baking coat a large frying pan with olive oil and heat on medium heat. Shake off excess flour from the remaining tofu and add to pan in a single layer. Cook on each side for 10-15 min or until golden brown.

Serves 4