Introducing a delectable fusion of Japanese flavors and plant-based goodness: Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu. This recipe combines the crispiness of tofu with the sweet and savory allure of homemade teriyaki sauce, creating a dish that's both satisfying and bursting with umami goodness.
Perfectly suited for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone craving a flavorful yet healthy meal option, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
This Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu recipe would pair well with my Tofu Dumplings. If you're looking for more teriyaki goodness you'll also love my Teriyaki Tofu Fillets recipe!
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Why you should make Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu
- Flavorful and Crispy: This recipe combines the crispy texture of fried tofu with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce, creating a deliciously satisfying dish.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal.
- Customisable and Versatile: You can easily adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions, making it adaptable for various dietary needs and preferences.
Why you should eat tofu
- High Protein Content: Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to meet their protein needs.
- Rich in Nutrients: Tofu is packed with essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and magnesium, which are important for overall health and well-being.
- Versatile and Low in Calories: Tofu is low in calories and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a versatile ingredient for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Ingredients for Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu
- Extra Firm Tofu: Provides plant-based protein and absorbs the flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
- Cornflour/Starch: Creates a crispy coating for the tofu when fried.
- Nori Sheet: Adds a hint of umami flavor and helps the cornflour stick to the tofu.
- Tamari/Soy Sauce: Adds savory flavor and richness to the teriyaki sauce.
- Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and caramelization to the sauce.
- Garlic and Ginger: Add aromatic flavor to the sauce.
- Maple Syrup: Enhances sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
- Sesame Oil: Adds nutty flavor and aroma to the sauce.
- Sesame Seeds and Chives: Garnish the dish with texture and flavor.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Wrap the tofu in the nori sheets
Fry in a hot pan with oil until golden and crispy
Add the sauce and let it thicken
Top with sesame and chives and enjoy
Variations
- Vegetable Teriyaki Stir-Fry: Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots to the stir-fry along with the tofu.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Tofu: Include chunks of pineapple in the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Spicy Teriyaki Tofu: Add some sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage
For optimal freshness and flavor, it's best to enjoy Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu immediately after preparation. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the tofu separate from any accompanying rice or vegetables to prevent sogginess. When reheating, gently warm the tofu in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, being careful not to overcook and maintain its crispy texture. It's worth noting that the texture of the tofu may soften slightly upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Top tip
A helpful tip for making Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu is to ensure that the pan is adequately heated before frying the tofu. Heating the pan thoroughly before adding the tofu strips helps to create a crispier exterior and prevents sticking. You can test if the pan is ready by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface—if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it's ready for frying. Additionally, try not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady fry and achieve perfectly golden-brown tofu strips.
FAQ
While extra firm tofu works best for its ability to hold its shape and absorb flavors, you can experiment with firm or medium tofu. Just keep in mind that softer tofu varieties may not hold up as well during frying.
Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, simply warm it up in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.
While frying the tofu creates a crispy texture, you can certainly bake it for a healthier alternative. Arrange the coated tofu strips on a lined baking sheet and bake at 200°C for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Nori Wrapped Teriyaki Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
Tofu ingredients:
- 300 g extra firm tofu
- ⅓ cup cornflour/starch
- 1 nori sheet
- 3 tablespoon olive oil or neutral oil of choice
Sauce ingredients:
- 3 tablespoon tamari/soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 garlic gloves minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Toppings:
- Sesame seeds
- Chives
Instructions
- Cut the tofu into strips as seen in the video. Do not pat the tofu dry, wetter the better so the nori can stick to it!
- Use scissors to cut 1-2cm wide strips of nori. The perfect length is half of a nori sheet. Wrap around the centre of the tofu, if it doesn’t stick in place dab some water to help it stick.
- Add the cornflour over a wide bowl or plate then coat the tofu pieces.
- Bring a large pan to medium heat with the olive oil then fry the tofu on each side for a few minutes until crispy, then remove from the pan.
- Turn the pan to medium/low heat then add all the sauce ingredients and let reduce for 1 - 2 minutes. Once it begins to thicken add your tofu back in and toss until the tofu is fully coated in the sauce.
- Top off with the sesame and chives and enjoy!!
Nutrition
Food safety
We sometimes take for a granted that we have years (or decades) of cooking experience, that the average visitor may not. Add to, or remove from, the list below with health and safety tips.
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
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