Craving a delicious and surprisingly satisfying meatless dish? Look no further than Tofu Tsukune, savory Japanese-style meatballs made with fluffy, juicy tofu. These delightful little morsels are packed with flavor, boasting a tender interior and a slightly crispy exterior. Forget dry, bland tofu – this recipe transforms it into a culinary masterpiece, perfect as a side dish or appetizer. The versatility of Tofu Tsukune allows it to complement a wide range of cuisines and flavors, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to expand your cooking horizons, this recipe is surprisingly easy to master. These Tofu Tsukune are incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize the ingredients to your liking. Ready to experience the magic of these delectable meatless meatballs? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Paper towels
- Tray or heavy bowl
- Knife
- Baking pan
Ingredients
- Momen Tofu (block)
- Carrots
- Thin Onions
- Grated Ginger
- Egg: 1
- Bonito Flakes
- Salt
- Pepper
- Soy Sauce
- Paper Towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu and Vegetables
- Drain the momen tofu using paper towels. Place two layers of paper towels on a diagonal and place the tofu on top. Put a tray or heavy object on top to press out excess water. (Leave for a while).
- Cut carrots into thin strips.
- Cut thin onions into small pieces.
- Add grated ginger and egg to the drained tofu. Mash and mix well until fluffy.
- Add the prepared carrots and green onions to the tofu mixture. Mix in bonito flakes.
Step 2. Shape and Season the Tsukune
- Divide the mixture into equal portions (around 4).
- Shape the mixture into small tsukune, slightly oiling your hands to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3. Cook the Tsukune
- Heat a little oil in a pan and bake the tsukune on medium-low heat, flipping to brown both sides.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat, drain excess oil, and serve. Enjoy with soy sauce and ginger!
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- Use a rubber spatula or whisk for mixing, but hand mixing is quicker.
- Cut the carrots into short strips to prevent them from sticking out.
- Bake on low heat for better flavor and appearance.
- Feel free to add other ingredients such as chopped onions, mushrooms, ham or kelp to enhance the flavor.
- Bonito flakes add a refined umami flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the tofu tsukune?
Yes! Cooked tsukune can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze them individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking.
2. What can I serve these with?
Tofu Tsukune are versatile! Serve them with rice, noodles, alongside grilled vegetables, or as part of a larger Japanese-inspired meal. A dipping sauce adds extra flavor.
These fluffy and juicy tofu tsukune are a testament to the delicious possibilities of meatless cooking. Enjoy the satisfying texture and customizable flavors, making this recipe a delightful addition to your weekly meal plan. Happy cooking!