Puerto Rican Vegan Satay: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
In the vibrant culinary landscape of Puerto Rico, the fusion of Caribbean flavors with international dishes can create something truly magical. Here, we’re transforming the traditional Satay recipe into a deliciously vegan and distinctly Puerto Rican delight.
The Cultural Significance
Puerto Rican cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by the island’s indigenous Taíno people, Spanish colonizers, and African traditions. The trio of Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito forms the backbone of this culinary heritage, adding depth and authenticity to every dish. In this vegan satay recipe, we’ll incorporate these iconic blends to capture the essence of Puerto Rico.
Ingredients
- Protein:
- 1 cup extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into satay-style strips
- Alternatively, you can use tempeh or TVP (textured vegetable protein), which is easily available and affordable in Puerto Rico.
- Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for recipe)
- 1/2 teaspoon Puerto Rican Sazón (see below for recipe)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Serving:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced scallions
- Peanut sauce (see below for recipe)
- A splash of vinegar to balance the flavors
Puerto Rican Adobo
- 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.
Puerto Rican Sazón
- 1 tablespoon ground annatto (achiote)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container.
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, Adobo, Sazón, garlic, ginger, cilantro, scallions, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
Marinate the Tofu
Place the tofu strips in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the tofu and mix well to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Grill the Tofu
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the tofu for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and slightly charred.
Prepare the Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- A splash of vinegar
Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Adjust the consistency and flavor as needed.
Serving
Serve the grilled tofu satay with a generous dollop of peanut sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and sliced scallions. For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of vinegar to balance the richness of the peanut sauce.
The Magic of Puerto Rican Flavors
In this vegan satay recipe, the Puerto Rican Adobo and Sazón add a depth of flavor that is quintessentially Caribbean. The Adobo enhances the tofu with bold, savory notes, while the Sazón contributes a vibrant color and earthy undertones. The Sofrito, though not directly used here, is the aromatic base that often underpins many Puerto Rican dishes, and its influence can be felt in the blend of herbs and spices used in the marinade.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the rich cultural heritage and the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico. Whether you’re a local or just exploring the island’s cuisine, this vegan satay is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. ¡Buen provecho
- Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials