Lemongrass tofu is a delicious tofu dish that is bursting with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass. This unique ingredient gives the tofu a refreshing zest that plays well in a variety of dishes from curries to salads. Lemongrass adds complexity while keeping the tofu light and fresh. Readers interested in expanding their culinary skills will enjoy learning how easy it is to make this tasty tofu. The simple marinade infuses the tofu with lemon-lime notes that pair well with spices, vegetables, and sauces. Lemongrass tofu is endlessly adaptable, making it a great staple for home cooks.
What Is Lemongrass Tofu?
Lemongrass tofu is a delicious tofu dish that is flavored with the citrusy and herbal notes of lemongrass. Here’s some more information about it:
- Lemongrass is an aromatic tropical grass that is used as an herb in Southeast Asian cuisines. It has a bright, lemony aroma and flavor.
- For this dish, lemongrass is minced very finely or pureed to infuse its flavor into the tofu.
- The tofu is usually fried or baked first to give it some texture. Then it is tossed in a sauce made with lemongrass, garlic, shallots, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and other aromatics.
- The sauce permeates the tofu cubes with robust lemongrass flavor. The tofu takes on a lovely caramelized exterior from being fried while maintaining a soft interior.
- The finished dish has a wonderful balance of flavors – the briny soy sauce, tangy vinegar, spicy garlic and chili, and the irresistible lemony aroma of the lemongrass.
- Lemongrass tofu goes well with rice or noodles. It can be enjoyed on its own as a protein-rich vegetarian main dish or paired with other Southeast Asian classic dishes.
- The aromatic lemongrass infusion gives typically bland tofu an unforgettable zesty flavor and aroma that livens up any meal. It’s a tasty way to add lemongrass flavor to dishes.
Benefits Of Lemongrass Tofu
Here are some of the benefits of eating lemongrass tofu:
- High in Protein – Tofu is a plant-based protein that provides all 9 essential amino acids. Lemongrass tofu gives you a healthy dose of protein.
- Provides Iron – Iron is necessary for transporting oxygen in the blood. The iron in tofu helps prevent anemia and promotes energy.
- Excellent Source of Calcium – The calcium in tofu helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth. It’s especially beneficial for preventing osteoporosis.
- Lean Source of Nutrition – Tofu is low in saturated fat, making it a nutritious protein option. Lemongrass tofu is rich in flavor without extra calories.
Ingredients For Lemongrass Tofu
The key to delicious lemongrass tofu is allowing time for the tofu to soak up all the bright flavor of the marinade. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 block extra firm tofu, drained and pressed to remove excess water
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 lemongrass stalks, trimmed and minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions, cilantro or basil for garnish.
Tips Making Lemongrass Tofu
Use these tips to get the most flavor out of lemongrass:
- Prep lemongrass by cutting off the root end and tough outer layers. Use only the tender white part.
- Softer tofus like silken will fall apart easily. Opt for firm or extra firm.
- Pan fry for crispiness, bake for chewiness, or broil for a crunchy crust.
- Skewer and grill lemongrass tofu for a smoky flavor.
- Serve lemongrass tofu over rice, in a sandwich, or atop a fresh salad.
Variations & Flavor Pairings
There are endless ways to flavor and customize lemongrass tofu:
Spicy Lemongrass Tofu:
- Add sriracha, chili garlic paste, or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Garnish with fresh chilis or chili oil.
Sweet & Sour Lemongrass Tofu:
- Whisk pineapple juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and tamari into the marinade.
- Toss cooked tofu with diced pineapple and bell pepper.
Crunchy Coconut Lemongrass Tofu:
- Roll marinated tofu pieces in shredded coconut.
- Bake in the oven until crispy.
Peanut Lemongrass Tofu:
- Toss cooked tofu in a peanut sauce.
- Garnish with crushed peanuts.
Great sauces for lemongrass tofu include:
- Peanut sauce
- Sweet chili sauce
- Teriyaki
- Pad thai sauce
- Citrus vinaigrettes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does lemongrass last?
Lemongrass stays fresh for 1-2 weeks refrigerated. It can also be frozen for several months.
How can I keep the tofu from getting mushy?
- Freeze and thaw tofu before marinating for a spongy texture.
- Pat tofu very dry before marinating.
- Use firm or extra firm tofu varieties.
- Don’t marinate longer than 30 minutes.
Can I make lemongrass tofu ahead of time?
You can marinate the tofu up to 24 hours in advance. Cook it just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion: Lemongrass Tofu
With its bright and refreshing flavor, lemongrass tofu makes an easy, adaptable weeknight meal or addition to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. The simple marinade lets the lemongrass shine through. Be sure to try the many variations and flavor pairings suggested here. We’d love to see your own twists on lemongrass tofu creations! Tag your photos and let us know how it turned out.
Lemongrass Tofu
Notes
· Adjust spice level: If you don't prefer much heat, remove the seeds from the chili pepper before mincing. You can also add less chili or omit it entirely.
· Tofu variations: You can pan-fry the tofu cubes in batches instead of marinating for a quicker option. Cubed or crumbled firm tofu will also work.
· Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time based on the chosen vegetables.
· Sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water) and cook until the sauce thickens.
· Leftovers: Store leftover Lemongrass Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
Ingredients
- • 1 shallot, minced
- • 1/2 red chili pepper, minced (adjust for spice preference)
- • 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and finely minced
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1-inch piece ginger, finely grated
- • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
- • 2 teaspoons lime juice
- • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- • 1 block (about 14 oz) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Add the pressed tofu and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- While the tofu marinates, mince the shallot, chili pepper (remove seeds for less heat), lemongrass, garlic, and ginger.
- Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add the tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan (if needed). Add the shallots, chili pepper, and lemongrass. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in a splash of water or broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to your sauce.
- If using vegetables, add them to the pan and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the marinade from the tofu into the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked tofu back to the pan and toss to coat it in the sauce. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or another desired base. Garnish with fresh herbs (cilantro, basil), lime wedges, and toasted nuts (optional).
Nutrition Facts
Lemongrass Tofu
Serves: 4 persons
| Amount Per Serving: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 500 | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 20 | 30.8% | |
| Saturated Fat 5 | 25% | |
| Trans Fat 0 | ||
| Cholesterol 10mg | 3.3% | |
| Sodium 600mg | 25% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 40 | 13.3% | |
| Dietary Fiber 10 | 40% | |
| Sugars 10 | ||
| Protein 25 | ||
| Vitamin A 0 | Vitamin C 0 | |
| Calcium 0 | Iron 0 | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Cheen Huaye
Executive Chef Marco Velasquez brings his unique, elevated Mexican cuisine to Cheen Huaye. A native of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Marco honed his skills in some of South Florida’s finest restaurants before opening his own restaurant.
At Cheen Huaye, you’ll experience authentic Yucatecan dishes made from fresh ingredients, to order. Our food has been praised by publications like the Miami New Times and continues to receive rave reviews from diners all over. So if you’re looking for a different take on Mexican food – one that’s still familiar yet exciting – come visit us at Cheen Huaye!