Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips and Sweet Potato Fries
Try this Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips and Sweet Potato Fries recipe
Try this Crispy Breaded Tofu Strips and Sweet Potato Fries recipe
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or other milk)
- 1 package firm or extra firm tofu (i use organic non-gmo, about 350 grams)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if necessary)
- scant 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp cayenne powder (for a kick of heat)
- 1 large sweet potato + 1 tsp oil + 1/2 tsp cinnamon + pinc
- Carbohydrate 20.9015943263588 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.974869759512854 g
- Fiber 2.15164206130496 g
- Protein 2.09978153358795 g
- Saturated Fat 0.136394024666861 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (27g)
- Sodium 11.3584653028667 mg
- Sugar 18.7499522650539 g
- Trans Fat 0.138712160079184 g
- Calories 98 calories
Step-by-step
- Press tofu: Rinse the tofu with water and place a couple kitchen towels on the counter. Wrap the tofu with another towel, place another towel on top, and finally several heavy cookbooks on top. Let sit for at least 20 minutes to soak out the water.
- Meanwhile, whisk together the milk and cornstarch in a shallow dish. In another bowl, mix together the cornmeal, breadcrumbs, salt, and spices. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 400F and grease 2 baking sheets with oil.
- Slice the potato into fries and then coat with 1 tsp oil, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp cumin, and a couple pinches of salt. Lay out on greased baking sheet.
- Slice tofu into 8-9 strips, lengthwise, depending on how thick you want it.
- With one hand dip the tofu strip into the milk mixture and then into the cornmeal/breadcrumb mixture. Use other hand to sprinkle dry mixture all over the tofu. Coat both sides entirely and then place on baking sheet. Repeat with the rest.
- Bake tofu on middle rack and fries on bottom rack at 400F. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the tofu and fries, and then bake for another 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Remove tofu and broil the fries for a few minutes, watching carefully, until golden and charred in some spots.
- Remove and serve with ketchup!
A Weeknight Winner: Crispy Tofu and Sweet Potato Fries
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are particularly challenging, often ending with the siren call of takeout menus and the guilt that follows. But what if I told you that a truly satisfying, nutritious, and surprisingly easy meal could be ready in under an hour? This recipe for crispy breaded tofu strips and sweet potato fries is my go-to solution for those hectic evenings. It’s a fantastic way to get a good serving of protein and vegetables without sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? My kids actually love it!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques, just a few pantry staples and some readily available produce. The tofu, pressed to remove excess moisture, gets a deliciously crispy coating from a simple breadcrumb and cornmeal mixture. The sweet potato fries, seasoned with a touch of cinnamon and cumin, bake alongside the tofu, creating a perfectly balanced meal. I often adjust the spices to suit my family’s preferences – sometimes adding a pinch of chili powder for a little kick, other times keeping it mild and sweet. The flexibility of the recipe is a huge plus, allowing me to adapt it to our ever-changing tastes.
Beyond the Recipe: A Family Favorite
This isn’t just a meal; it’s a family ritual. On busy weeknights, the aroma of the baking fries and tofu fills our home, signaling the end of the day and the start of family time. My kids are often involved in the process, helping to slice the sweet potatoes or carefully dip the tofu strips. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, teach them about healthy eating, and foster a sense of teamwork in the kitchen. The cleanup is relatively straightforward too, a significant advantage after a long day at work.
The crispy texture of the tofu is a revelation. Forget the soggy tofu of your childhood memories; this recipe guarantees a satisfying crunch that rivals any breaded chicken strip. The sweet potato fries provide a delicious counterpoint to the savory tofu, adding a touch of sweetness and a delightful earthiness. And the best part? I can usually sneak in a few extra fries myself before the kids get their hands on the whole batch.
More Than Just a Meal: A Source of Comfort and Connection
This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; it's a small act of love in a busy world. It represents the commitment to nourish my family both physically and emotionally. It's a chance to slow down, connect, and create memories around a simple, shared meal. In the rush of everyday life, these seemingly small moments of connection can make all the difference. And for those moments, this recipe is a treasure.
Tips and Variations:
Here are a few tips and variations to make this recipe even more enjoyable:
- Customize the Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends. Italian herbs, paprika, or garlic powder would all be delicious additions.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some broccoli florets or Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet alongside the tofu and fries for a complete and healthy meal.
- Make it a Meal Prep Staple: Prepare the tofu and fries ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
- Dip it Up: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, sriracha mayo, or a sweet chili sauce.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner, give this recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your family's meal rotation. And remember, sometimes the simplest meals are the most rewarding.
