Puerto Rican Vegan Baked Tofu: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine lies a rich tapestry of flavors, deeply rooted in the island’s diverse cultural heritage. To bring this vibrant essence to your table, we’re transforming a simple baked tofu recipe into a deliciously authentic Puerto Rican vegan dish.

The Magic of Puerto Rican Flavors

Puerto Rican cuisine is renowned for its bold and aromatic spice blends: Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito. These blends are the backbone of traditional cooking and will elevate your baked tofu to new heights.

Ingredients

• 1 (450 g) block of extra firm tofu
• 2 tbsp Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for homemade Adobo recipe)
• 1 tsp Puerto Rican Sazón (see below for homemade Sazón recipe)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: A splash of vinegar to balance flavors

Homemade Adobo Recipe

• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in a sealed container for up to 6 months.

Homemade Sazón Recipe

• 1 tbsp ground annatto (achiote)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Remove the tofu from its container and press out the excess water using a tofu press or by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing heavy objects on top for at least 30 minutes.
   • Once pressed, drain the excess water, pat the tofu dry, and cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. Season the Tofu:
   • In a large bowl, combine the tofu cubes, Adobo, Sazón, olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss the tofu to ensure it is completely coated with the spice mixture.
3. Bake the Tofu:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the tofu cubes, making sure to leave some space between each piece.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through at the 15-minute mark.
4. Add a Touch of Balance:
   • If desired, add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors and enhance the health benefits of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Puerto Rican Vegan Baked Tofu as part of a traditional meal, such as alongside rice and beans (arroz y habichuelas), or as a protein component in a hearty stew (sancocho).
• For an extra burst of flavor, sauté some Sofrito in olive oil before adding the baked tofu to your dish.

Cultural Significance

Puerto Rican cuisine is a beautiful blend of Taíno, Spanish, and African influences. The use of Adobo, Sazón, and Sofrito reflects this rich cultural heritage, bringing depth and authenticity to every dish. By incorporating these spice blends into your vegan baked tofu, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also honoring the culinary traditions of Puerto Rico.

Alternative Protein Options

If you prefer not to use tofu, you can substitute it with tempeh or textured vegetable protein (TVP), which is easily available and very affordable in Puerto Rico. However, for many dishes, especially stews and soups, beans are an excellent and nutritious alternative.

Enjoy your deliciously flavorful Puerto Rican Vegan Baked Tofu, and let the vibrant spirit of the island’s cuisine come alive in your kitchen

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