31 de mayo de 2023

Pasta and tomato sauce with crispy tofu bites

Pasta and Tomato Sauce with Crispy Tofu Bites

This vegan and vegetarian-friendly dish is a delicious combination of pasta and tomato sauce topped with crispy, savory tofu bites. The tomato sauce is a classic Italian-style tomato sauce that’s spiced with oregano, basil, and garlic. It’s simmered until thick and flavorful, and then stirred into cooked pasta. The tofu bites are lightly coated with a combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a crunchy texture, and then fried until golden and crisp. This is an easy and flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

1 package extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup vegan Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup diced onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon sugar
8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation

Begin by preparing the tofu bites. Cut the tofu into 1/2-inch cubes and place them in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, vegan Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly combined.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the cubed tofu and fry until golden and crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and sugar. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and return the pasta to the pot.

Add the tomato sauce to the pot of pasta and mix until combined. Stir in the crispy tofu bites. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.