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The Best Tofu Scramble Recipe: A Delightful Vegan Breakfast

Tofu scramble is a versatile and nutritious dish that has become a popular staple in vegan and vegetarian diets. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, it serves as a fantastic alternative to scrambled eggs. This delightful recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for endless experimentation with flavours and ingredients. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create the best tofu scramble, along with some tips and variations to keep your breakfast exciting.

Ingredients

To make a basic tofu scramble, you will need the following:

• 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu (about 400g)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any colour)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (for colour and flavour)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh spinach (optional)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), chopped (optional)
• Chilli flakes or fresh chillies (for a spicy kick, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. To do this, wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, crumble the tofu into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a fork.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers soften.

3. Add the Tofu: Increase the heat slightly and add the crumbled tofu to the pan. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.

4. Season the Scramble: Sprinkle the turmeric, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the tofu mixture. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to evenly coat the tofu. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add spinach and cook until wilted.

5. Final Touches: Adjust the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, toss in some chilli flakes or fresh chillies. For added freshness, throw in some chopped herbs just before serving.

6. Serve: This tofu scramble can be enjoyed on its own or served on toasted bread, in a wrap, or alongside avocado and baked beans for a hearty breakfast.

Tips for the Best Tofu Scramble

• Choose the Right Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during cooking. Silken tofu will be too mushy for a scramble.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or kale. The only limit is your imagination!

• Add Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavour without dairy, add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast while cooking.

• Marinate for Extra Flavour: For an added depth of flavour, marinate the crumbled tofu in soy sauce or tamari for about 15 minutes before cooking.

Variations to Try

• Mexican Tofu Scramble: Add black beans, corn, and spices like paprika and cayenne. Top with avocado and fresh salsa for a fiesta on your plate.

• Mediterranean Tofu Scramble: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and herbs like oregano and basil. Serve with pita bread for a Mediterranean flair.

• Curried Tofu Scramble: Introduce curry powder or garam masala along with some chopped tomatoes. Serve with naan bread for a delicious twist.

Conclusion

This tofu scramble recipe is not only nourishing but also allows for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your choice of add-ins, it’s a fantastic way to start the day. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a hearty breakfast that will impress vegans and non-vegans alike! Enjoy the vibrant colours, delightful flavours, and the satisfaction of a healthy meal. Happy cooking!