Lemongrass and Five Spice Tofu
Photo: Thomas J. Story
Inspired by the sandwiches at TigerTiger, this herbaceous tofu marinade is irresistible. Fresh ginger and lemongrass excite the senses, and soy sauce adds a salty, Asian-inspired kick. Make sure the tofu is extra-firm, as softer consistencies will collapse and not be able to hold up in a sandwich. Find this blend of fennel, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger with the spices at well-stocked grocery stores. Cut, marinate, and chill tofu up to a day ahead, keeping chilled and covered the entire time.
How to Make It
Step 1
1
Cut tofu into 7 or 8 slices, each 1/2 in. thick and about 2 by 4 in. wide, and set in a 9- by 13-in. dish. In a food processor, whirl lemongrass, ginger, and garlic to mince. Add 2 tbsp. water and remaining ingredients; whirl to blend. Spoon marinade over tofu and turn to coat, distributing seasonings. Chill, covered, at least 3 hours, turning occasionally.
Step 2
2
Preheat oven to 450°. Set tofu on an oiled baking sheet, brushing off seasonings with fingers. Bake tofu until browned and a little crisp, 25 to 30 minutes.
Step 3
3
*Find this blend of fennel, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger with the spices at well-stocked grocery stores.
Step 4
4
Wine pairing: Fresh, aromatic Poet's Leap 2015 Riesling (Columbia Valley; $20).
Step 5
5
Make ahead: Through step 1, up 1 day, chilled.
Step 6
6
Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving of tofu.
Ingredients
20 ounces extra-firm tofu
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped lemongrass (tender inner part)
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh ginger
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons canola oil
1/4 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder*
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon red chile flakes
Directions
Step 1
1
Cut tofu into 7 or 8 slices, each 1/2 in. thick and about 2 by 4 in. wide, and set in a 9- by 13-in. dish. In a food processor, whirl lemongrass, ginger, and garlic to mince. Add 2 tbsp. water and remaining ingredients; whirl to blend. Spoon marinade over tofu and turn to coat, distributing seasonings. Chill, covered, at least 3 hours, turning occasionally.
Step 2
2
Preheat oven to 450°. Set tofu on an oiled baking sheet, brushing off seasonings with fingers. Bake tofu until browned and a little crisp, 25 to 30 minutes.
Step 3
3
*Find this blend of fennel, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger with the spices at well-stocked grocery stores.
Step 4
4
Wine pairing: Fresh, aromatic Poet's Leap 2015 Riesling (Columbia Valley; $20).
Step 5
5
Make ahead: Through step 1, up 1 day, chilled.
Step 6
6
Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving of tofu.
