Tofu dengaku: grilled tofu with a savory miso glaze

Introduction

Tofu dengaku is a traditional Japanese dish that features grilled tofu topped with a savory miso glaze. This dish is not only delicious but also a great source of plant-based protein. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, tofu dengaku is a popular choice for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this delectable dish at home.

Ingredients

For this tofu dengaku recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu
• 1/4 cup of white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons of mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of sake
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your own tofu dengaku:

1. Start by pressing the block of tofu to remove excess water. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch thick slices.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the white miso paste, mirin, sugar, sake, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Heat the mixture over low heat while stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the tofu from sticking.
4. Place the tofu slices on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the tofu is heated through.
5. Using a brush, generously coat the grilled tofu slices with the miso glaze. Allow the tofu to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side, brushing with more glaze as needed, until the glaze caramelizes slightly.
6. Once the tofu dengaku is done, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish if desired.
7. Serve the tofu dengaku hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

FAQs about Tofu Dengaku

What is Tofu Dengaku?

Tofu dengaku is a traditional Japanese dish that consists of grilled tofu topped with a savory miso glaze. The tofu is typically skewered and grilled until it develops a slightly crispy exterior, while the miso glaze adds a rich and flavorful coating.

How is Tofu Dengaku Prepared?

To prepare tofu dengaku, tofu blocks are cut into thick slices or cubes and then grilled until golden brown. The miso glaze, made with miso paste, mirin, sugar, and sometimes sake, is then brushed onto the grilled tofu and caramelized under a broiler or with a kitchen torch until it forms a glossy and flavorful crust.

What Does Tofu Dengaku Taste Like?

Tofu dengaku has a delightful contrast of textures, with the crispy exterior of the grilled tofu complemented by the sweet and savory umami flavors of the miso glaze. The dish is often described as rich, savory, and slightly sweet, with a hint of smokiness from the grilling process.

Is Tofu Dengaku Vegan-Friendly?

Yes, tofu dengaku can be made vegan-friendly by using plant-based ingredients such as vegan miso paste