Teriyaki Tofu Poutine: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Canadian Dish
Teriyaki Tofu Poutine: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Canadian Dish
Do you love the comforting flavors of poutine but are looking for a healthier and vegan-friendly alternative? Look no further! We have the perfect recipe for you – Teriyaki Tofu Poutine. This innovative fusion dish combines elements from Japanese and Canadian cuisines to create a uniquely delicious and nutritious meal. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering twist on a classic Canadian favorite.
Ingredients (Metric & Imperial):
- 500g (1 lb) of firm tofu
- 60ml (¼ cup) of soy sauce
- 60ml (¼ cup) of maple syrup
- 30ml (2 tbsp) of rice vinegar
- 15ml (1 tbsp) of sesame oil
- 30ml (2 tbsp) of cornstarch
- 5ml (1 tsp) of garlic powder
- 5ml (1 tsp) of ginger powder
- 5ml (1 tsp) of onion powder
- 900g (2 lbs) of russet potatoes
- 250g (1 cup) of vegan cheese curds
- 30ml (2 tbsp) of chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F). Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into thick fries.
- In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with 15ml (1 tbsp) of sesame oil until they’re evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step will ensure that your fries turn out golden and crispy.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fries for about 30-35 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
While the fries are baking, it’s time to prepare the teriyaki tofu. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet, on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
In the meantime, prepare the teriyaki sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
Once the tofu has been pressed, cut it into small bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu in cornstarch until it is well-coated.
Heat 15ml (1 tbsp) of sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the coated tofu cubes and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy.
Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked tofu cubes and stir gently to coat them evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
Remove the baked fries from the oven and sprinkle vegan cheese curds over them. Return the tray to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese starts to melt.
To serve, divide the cheesy fries among plates or bowls and top them with the teriyaki tofu. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness and flavor.
Notes/Tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the teriyaki tofu before serving.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or cheese alternatives for the poutine topping. Vegan mozzarella or cheddar can be delicious alternatives to vegan cheese curds.
- If you like your poutine extra saucy, you can double the teriyaki sauce recipe.
Conclusion:
Teriyaki Tofu Poutine is a prime example of the creativity and diversity that fusion cuisine brings to the table. By combining Japanese teriyaki flavors with the beloved Canadian poutine, we’ve created a dish that is both delicious and healthy. The crispy fries, gooey cheese, and flavorful teriyaki tofu come together to form an unforgettable culinary experience. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this satisfying and innovative fusion dish today!