High Protein Black Pepper Tofu

Elevate your plant-based meals with this High Protein Black Pepper Tofu—a bold, flavor-packed dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Featuring crispy extra-firm tofu coated in a golden cornstarch crust, this recipe delivers an irresistible crunch before being tossed in a rich, savory sauce infused with coarsely ground black pepper, fresh garlic, and ginger. A hint of sweetness from agave syrup balances the umami of soy sauces, while vibrant bell peppers and scallions add color and crunch. Finished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, this 30-minute vegan masterpiece pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa, making it perfect for a quick, protein-rich weeknight dinner or an elegant plant-based meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 g extra-firm tofu
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp agave syrup
• 2 tbsp water
• 3 scallions, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1

Press the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture for at least 15 minutes, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2

In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until they are evenly coated.

Step 3

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry until golden brown and crisp on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add coarsely ground black pepper, and stir for 30 seconds to bring out its flavor.

Step 6

Add low-sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, agave syrup, and water. Stir well to combine.

Step 7

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 8

Add sliced red bell pepper and chopped scallions, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to soften slightly.

Step 9

Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Step 10

Serve immediately with steamed rice or your choice of grains.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(752.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1216.0

Total Fat 75.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 10.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.2g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2158.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 74.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.4g	0%
Total Sugars 22.4g
Protein 71.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2899.3mg	0%
Iron 14.9mg	0%
Potassium 1474.3mg	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: 53.7%

Protein: 22.7%

Carbs: 23.5%