Caramelized Tofu and Brussel Sprouts with Cilantro and Nuts

Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this delectable Caramelized Tofu and Brussel Sprouts with Cilantro and Nuts. Packed with crispy pan-fried tofu, tender caramelized Brussel sprouts, and a glossy, soy-maple glaze, this dish is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Fresh cilantro and crunchy toasted cashews or peanuts lend a bright, textural contrast, making every bite irresistible. Ready in under 45 minutes, this plant-based recipe is as nutritious as it is satisfying, ideal for a wholesome vegetarian main course or a flavorful side dish. Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for an easy yet impressive meal. Keywords: caramelized tofu recipe, Brussel sprouts with glaze, plant-based dinner, vegetarian weeknight recipes, tofu and nut stir-fry.

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 1 pound Brussel sprouts
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 large garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1 quarter cup toasted cashews or peanuts
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Begin by pressing the tofu. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a plate, and weigh it down with a heavy object (like a skillet or can) for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Step 2

While the tofu is being pressed, trim the ends of the Brussel sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth. This will be the sauce.

Step 4

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into 1-inch cubes. Pat the cubes dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.

Step 5

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the Brussel sprouts, cut side down, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes without stirring, until the cut sides are deeply browned and caramelized.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 8

Return the tofu to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and Brussel sprouts, tossing everything gently to coat. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and glaze the tofu and sprouts.

Step 9

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro and toasted nuts over the dish for garnish.

Step 10

Serve immediately as a main dish or alongside steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1131.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1946.5

Total Fat 124.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.3g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3445.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 138.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 33.6g	0%
Total Sugars 48.2g
Protein 105.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 3018.7mg	0%
Iron 25.8mg	0%
Potassium 3855.8mg	0%

*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: 53.6%

Protein: 20.0%

Carbs: 26.4%