International Cuisine

Herbed Tofu & Spinach in Tomato Basil Sauce

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Herbed Tofu & Spinach in Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, wholesome continental dinner, look no further than this Herbed Tofu & Spinach in Tomato Basil Sauce. This delightful dish combines fresh spinach, crisp red bell pepper, and fragrant mixed herbs, all simmered in a rich, tangy tomato gravy. Topped with perfectly pan-seared herbed tofu, it’s a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other comforting sides. Whether you’re following a vegetarian diet or simply looking for a hearty, nutritious dinner, this recipe is sure to please.

Cuisine: Continental

Course: Dinner

Diet: Vegetarian


Ingredients:

Ingredient Quantity
Tofu 250 grams
Spinach 100 grams, torn
Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) 1, sliced
Onion 1, finely chopped
Garlic 4 cloves, finely chopped
Homemade Tomato Puree 2 cups
Mixed Herbs (Dried) 2 tablespoons
Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 tablespoons
Cayenne Pepper ½ teaspoon
Black Pepper Powder ½ teaspoon
Water ½ cup
Corn Flour 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste

Preparation Time:

  • 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

  • 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Tofu:
    Begin by removing the tofu from its package and wrapping it in paper towels. Press gently to absorb any excess moisture. This step helps the tofu to better absorb the flavors and achieve a crispier texture when seared.

  2. Cook the Tomato Basil Sauce:
    In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
    Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
    Pour in the homemade tomato puree and cook, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer over low heat, uncovered, for about 15 minutes until the tomatoes cook down into a thick, rich paste. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, and ensure the raw tomato smell dissipates.

  3. Add Vegetables and Herbs:
    Stir in 1 tablespoon of mixed herbs (dried) and the sliced red bell pepper (capsicum). Sauté for a minute to soften the peppers slightly.
    Next, add the torn-up spinach leaves and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they wilt down.
    Add ½ cup of water, then season with salt and black pepper powder. Cover the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Once done, turn off the heat and set the sauce aside.

  4. Prepare the Herbed Tofu:
    While the sauce is simmering, take the pressed tofu and cut it into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Sprinkle both sides of the tofu with corn flour and 1 tablespoon of the remaining mixed herbs. This will give the tofu a crisp coating when pan-fried.

  5. Pan-Fry the Tofu:
    Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu pieces to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.

  6. Assemble the Dish:
    To serve, place the cooked tomato, capsicum, and spinach sauce onto a serving plate, spreading it evenly.
    Gently place the pan-seared herbed tofu on top of the sauce. You can drizzle a little extra sauce over the tofu for added flavor and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

  7. Serving Suggestion:
    For a complete and satisfying meal, serve this dish alongside a bowl of Cream of Mushroom & Spring Onion Soup, some creamy polenta, and a No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Dessert. This combination will ensure a fulfilling, wholesome dinner that’s sure to satisfy.


Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 210 kcal
Protein 18 grams
Carbohydrates 15 grams
Fiber 4 grams
Fat 14 grams
Sodium 450 mg

This Herbed Tofu & Spinach in Tomato Basil Sauce is a perfect dish to enjoy on a weeknight. It’s rich in flavor, packed with nutrients, and extremely satisfying. The tofu adds a hearty, protein-rich element to the dish, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. With a slight kick from the cayenne pepper and the depth of the homemade tomato gravy, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy!

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