Blackened Tofu

Transform your plant-based meals with this irresistible Blackened Tofu recipe! Featuring crispy slices of extra-firm tofu coated in a bold, smoky blend of paprika, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne, this recipe delivers mouthwatering Cajun-inspired flavors in just 25 minutes. The tofu is pan-seared to perfection, creating a caramelized crust bursting with spices, while a drizzle of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty finishing touch. Perfect as a protein-packed topping for rice bowls, salads, wraps, or tacos, this vegan and gluten-free dish is as versatile as it is flavorful. Elevate your dinner table with this quick, healthy, and satisfying recipe your whole family will love!

Nutriscore Rating: 83/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) Extra-firm tofu
• 2 teaspoons Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like a skillet) for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Slice the pressed tofu into 6-8 equal slabs or cubes, depending on your preference.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to form the blackening spice mix.

Step 4

Rub the tofu slices or cubes with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 5

Sprinkle the blackening spice mixture over all sides of the tofu, pressing gently so the spices stick well.

Step 6

Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 7

Place the seasoned tofu in the skillet in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the tofu is crispy and the spices are blackened but not burnt. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your pan.

Step 8

Remove the tofu from the skillet and drizzle it with lemon juice for a bright touch of acidity.

Step 9

Serve the blackened tofu immediately over rice, salad, or alongside your favorite vegetables. It’s also great in wraps or tacos!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	456.5 grams (456.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	869

Total Fat 60.80g	78%
Saturated Fat 9.30g	47%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1249mg	54%
Total Carbohydrate 25.60g	9%
Dietary Fiber 12.60g	45%
Total Sugars 3.40g
Protein 63.80g	128%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2761mg	212%
Iron 13mg	73%
Potassium 1164mg	25%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.5%

Protein: 28.2%

Carbs: 11.3%