Just because a person is vegetarian doesn't mean they can't indulge in the occasional pub fare - though that may be hard to find in mainstream restaurants. Veggie burgers with fries and mushrooms on toast are some of the options I've tried - but nothing comes close to this homemade delicacy of Buffalo Tofu.
The sauce used on Buffalo-flavoured chicken wings is no secret. It's usually just equal parts butter and hot sauce. But does it work on other foods besides chicken? You bet your bucket! Tofu never flies off the plate faster than when it's prepared like this.
Keep in mind, this recipe is not just for late-night cravings. Try the tofu cut into cube-sized pieces and stabbed with toothpicks as a snack for football games or an appetizer at parties. Just don't wear white while eating it!
Buffalo Tofu Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 brick (350 or 450g) extra-firm tofu
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank's or similar)
- 1/3 cup butter or margarine (use vegan margarine for a vegan dish)
- garlic powder (optional)
Directions:
- Press tofu under heavy plate or weight for 30 minutes, or press out excess water with your hands. Sprinkle with garlic powder if desired.
- Cut pressed tofu into strips, chunks, nuggets, or whatever shapes you desire. Don't make them too big, or they won't hold enough sauce.
- Melt butter or margarine in a small saucepan over low heat. This will form the base for your sauce.
- In a separate small frying pan, heat some butter/margarine/cooking spray. Fry the tofu over medium heat, being careful not to burn. When the first side is golden brown, flip the tofu.
- When the butter/margarine in the saucepan is melted, gently stir in the hot sauce with a wooden spoon. When the two are sufficiently mixed, pour sauce slowly over the tofu, which should still be cooking (on its second side) in the frying pan. Heat through and serve!
Variation
Dig out those dried soy protein (TSP) chunks or slices - this recipe is a must! Not familiar with dried textured soy protein? Look for brand names such as SoSoya+, or in the bins at bulk food or health food stores.
High-protein, low-fat soy slices require re-hydration before eating. In this recipe, partially re-hydrate the slices or chunks with a touch of boiling water and finish with the hot sauce. They will absorb all the delicious flavours right into the slices. It even works in the microwave.
