Crispy Baked Tofu with a Quick Curry Sauce

I know I've had this discussion before, but regular tofu just isn't my favorite thing. It's definitely a texture thing, and the crumbly texture of regular sauteed tofu isn't my first choice. However, baked or smoked tofu is a whole different story! The texture is denser and much more enjoyable. If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend you do. Tofu is such a wonderful way to get protein without a lot of fat, as well as a nice dose of B-vitamins and iron.

Although you can purchase baked tofu in the store, it's so much more fun to make your own version, and here I've coated and baked it until crispy, giving it a wonderful texture. I've tossed it with a quick curry sauce, that is wonderfully rich from a touch of butter and fat-free half and half. All together, you've got a nutritiously sound meal that delivers in taste! And if you aren't a tofu eater, don't despair - you can toss this quick curry sauce with tempeh, beans, or even sauteed chicken.



Crispy Baked Tofu with a Quick Curry Sauce
Serves 4

Marinade
1 pkg. water-packed tofu, drained and cut into 1" cubes
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar

1/2 c cornstarch
1 tbsp chili powder

3 tbsp butter
1 cup slivered onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1/2 tsp curry powder
1/4 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp sugar (depending on the acidity of your tomatoes)
1/4 c fat-free half and half

In a ziploc bag, combine tofu and the remaining marinade ingredients. Place in refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least an hour, although overnight is best. Preheat oven to 350. Combine cornstarch and chili powder in a shallow bowl. Toss tofu cubes, a few at a time, in cornstarch until well coated and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray and place in heated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, flipping at least once, until crispy on the outside.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat butter oven medium high heat until melted. Add onions and saute 3-5 minutes, until almost tender. Add garlic, and saute an additional minute or so. Add curry powder, coriander, cumin, and cayenne pepper, and saute for another minute. Add tomato sauce and allow sauce to simmer for a few minutes. Add sugar if desired. Simmer for another few minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in half and half. Toss tofu in sauce and serve over rice.

This is part of "Tempt My Tummy Tuesday" - be sure to check the site for the rest of the tasty recipes!