Lately, I have been making this Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Tofu, aka Easiest Peanut Butter Tofu a few times a week, so I wanted to share with you guys a slightly modified recipe from the original version. This modification is so easy! I can whip up an entire dinner in about ten minutes. This meal is protein-packed and supper satisfying and delicious....
Simple Tofu Recipe
So this recipe uses just FIVE ingredients that I always have on hand. They include:
- tofu, firm, diced into cubes
- peanut butter
- maple syrup (or agave)
- liquid aminos (or tamari or soy sauce)
- olive oil
That's it! So simple and super flavorful.
Some additional ingredients I sometimes include:
- cashews
- nutritional yeast
- pepper
Flavor profile: Savory Sweet
This recipe takes the blandness of tofu and instantly makes it sassy, sweet and savory! The salty liquid aminos, mixed with the bright sweet maple syrup compliment the rich and nutty flavor of the peanut butter. The peanut butter creates a thickness to the sauce, so no additional ingredients like corn starch are needed.
So if you love a savory-sweet flavor to your meals - this is a winner!!!
Add Some Heat?
It can be fun to add some spice or heat to this Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Tofu recipe... You could add in cayenne, red pepper flakes or even some diced onion or garlic. Chipotle or turmeric spices could also work for another layer of smoky flavor.
But honestly, I just love the simplicity of the tofu, peanut butter, maple and aminos!
On the Side..
I serve this Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Tofu with steamed broccoli - seasoned with nutritional yeast and some salt or more liquid aminos. And on the side, some fluffy white or brown rice - or even pasta or quinoa would work well!
I usually make a double recipe of the tofu when it becomes a family meal.
Exploring Nutritional Powerhouses in Peanut Butter Tofu...
Embarking on a culinary journey that fuses the velvety richness of peanut butter with the versatility of tofu opens a world of not just sensational flavors but also impressive nutritional benefits. Each component in this peanut butter tofu recipe contributes to a symphony of taste and health, making it a delightful addition to your plant-based repertoire.
Tofu: The Plant-Powered Protein
At the heart of this recipe lies tofu, a soy-based powerhouse of nutrition. Tofu is a prime source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for those adopting a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Packed with essential amino acids, tofu supports muscle growth and repair. Moreover, tofu is a rich source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, promoting bone health and overall well-being. Its neutral flavor makes it a versatile canvas for absorbing the robust taste of peanut butter and other complementary ingredients.
Peanut Butter: A Spoonful of Goodness
The marriage of tofu with peanut butter not only elevates the dish's flavor but also enhances its nutritional profile. Peanut butter brings a generous dose of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-friendly. Additionally, it contributes a satisfying protein punch and an array of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a cleaner and more nutrient-dense option.
Liquid Aminos: Flavorful Elixir of Amino Acids
Instead of salt or even soy sauce in this Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Tofu, I use liquid aminos.
Liquid aminos, derived from soy protein, serve as a savory substitute for traditional soy sauce in this recipe. Beyond its role as a flavor enhancer, liquid aminos offer a concentrated source of essential amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle development and immune support. This savory elixir not only intensifies the umami notes but also adds a nutritional boost to your peanut butter tofu creation.
That being said, you could sub LA with salt, tamari or soy sauce. Just modify a bit because soy sauce is stronger in saltiness than LA, in my opinion.
Maple Syrup: Nature's Sweet Elixir
Balancing the savory elements, maple syrup lends a touch of natural sweetness to the dish. Beyond its role as a delightful sweetener, maple syrup provides an array of antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc. Opt for pure maple syrup for a genuine and unrefined sweetness that complements the robust flavors of peanut butter and tofu.
Photography Note
Guys, I am at a point in work right now where I just can't squeeze in full-fledged photo shoots of new recipes! Ha. So this is literally an iPhone shot. Sorry! I promise it tastes delicious. I am working on a BIG project tba soon and burying my head in it, along with all my other mama duties. Photography will make a comeback eventually, promise.
thanks for understanding! if you take a prettier shot of your recipe - be sure to TAG ME on social media an I will share it!!! @ findingvegan or kathypatalsky on Instagram.
Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Tofu
Ingredients
- 10 oz tofu, firm
- 2 tablespoon peanut butter, heaping
- 2-3 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp liquid aminos
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Warm a skillet over high heat. Add in the oil.
- Slice tofu into cubes. Squeeze cubes very well in a paper or cloth towel to remove excess liquid.
- Add tofu and liquid aminos to the hot oil and cover with lid. Shake pan a few times to distribute the oil over the tofu. A spatula could also be used.
- Cook 2-3 minutes then. remove lid.
- Lower heat to medium.
- Add in the peanut butter and maple syrup. Use a spatula to mix tofu and maple and peanut butter until it becomes a thick sauce. The tofu should be nicely coated in a chunky sort of sweetened peanut butter sauce.
- Cover with lid again and turn off heat. Let sit for a few minutes - until ready to serve. The closed lid will allow the flavors to marinate the tofu a bit and also allow the tofu to rest before serving. The lid keeps the tofu warm.
- Serve alongside veggies and rice for a full meal!
Equipment
- 1 skillet