Puerto Rican Vegan Blackened “Salmon”: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

In the vibrant world of Puerto Rican cuisine, flavors are bold, and traditions are rich. To give the classic blackened salmon a Puerto Rican vegan twist, we’ll substitute the salmon with a delicious and sustainable alternative, and infuse it with the iconic flavors of the island.

The Magic of Puerto Rican Spices

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine: Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito. These spice blends are the backbone of traditional Puerto Rican cooking and will elevate our dish to new heights.

• Sazón: A vibrant spice mix that adds a golden-red color and depth to dishes. It includes annatto (achiote), garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
• Adobo: A simple, versatile seasoning for meats and vegetables, made with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika.
• Sofrito: A fresh herb-and-vegetable blend used as a cooking base, typically including culantro (recao), cilantro, ají dulce peppers, onion, garlic, and green bell pepper.

Vegan Blackened “Salmon” Recipe

For this recipe, we’ll use extra-firm tofu as our “salmon” substitute, but you can also use tempeh or TVP if you prefer. TVP, or Textured Vegetable Protein, is a great option and is easily available and affordable in Puerto Rico.

Ingredients

• 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into fillet-like pieces
• 1 tablespoon of Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for Adobo recipe)
• 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1⁄2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted vegan butter (or oil)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
• Sofrito (optional, for added depth of flavor)

Adobo Recipe

• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Pat the tofu pieces dry with a paper towel.
2. Mix the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine the Adobo, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and thyme.
3. Butter Up: Melt the vegan butter in a small bowl. Brush the melted butter over the tofu pieces.
4. Spice It Up: Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the tofu pieces. Lightly pat the spices to adhere.
5. Heat the Pan: Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is very hot before adding the tofu (a droplet of water should dance on its surface).
6. Cook the Tofu: Add the tofu pieces, one at a time, spice-side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes without disturbing, until the surface is blackened. Flip and cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes, or until the tofu is fully cooked and crispy on the outside.
7. Finishing Touches: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the tofu and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Optional: Adding Sofrito for Extra Flavor

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté 2-3 tablespoons of Sofrito in oil before adding the tofu to the pan. This will “awaken” the flavors and create a rich, aromatic base for your dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Salad: Serve the vegan blackened “salmon” with a fresh salad, like a Caesar Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad or a simple mixed green salad.
• Rice or Beans: Pair it with Puerto Rican-style rice and beans, such as Arroz con Gandules, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
• Vegan Sancocho: For a more hearty meal, consider serving it with a vegan version of Sancocho, a traditional Puerto Rican stew.

Cultural Significance and Tips

Puerto Rican cuisine is all about bold flavors and rich traditions. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use Local Ingredients: When possible, use local ingredients like culantro (recao) and ají dulce peppers to add authentic flavor.
• Balance Flavors: A splash of vinegar can balance the flavors in savory dishes and provide health benefits.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice blends to your taste. Adding a bit of Sazón or Adobo can make all the difference.

By combining the bold spices of Puerto Rican cuisine with a vegan twist, we’ve created a dish that not only honors traditional flavors but also offers a sustainable and delicious alternative. Enjoy your Puerto Rican Vegan Blackened “Salmon” and savor the vibrant flavors of the island

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