Get ready to transform your ordinary tofu into an extraordinary culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of North Africa! This Sweet and Spicy Harissa Tofu is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the bold heat of harissa with the subtle sweetness of maple syrup, creating a dish that's both irresistible and Instagram-worthy. Whether you're a spice lover, a tofu enthusiast, or simply someone looking to break free from boring meals, this recipe promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp harissa paste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the tofu. Take a block of firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the harissa paste, maple syrup, olive oil, cumin, and salt to taste. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined to create a marinade.
- Add the cubed tofu to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss the tofu in the marinade until all pieces are evenly coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the tofu is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- After the tofu has marinated, spread the cubes evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure to leave space between the pieces for even cooking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through the cooking time to ensure it gets crispy on all sides.
- Once the tofu is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- To serve, transfer the sweet and spicy harissa tofu to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- This dish pairs well with grains like couscous or quinoa, or can be served alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious North African-inspired dish!
Tips
- Press Your Tofu Like a Pro: Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Use a tofu press or the classic towel-and-weight method to extract maximum water.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don't rush the marinating process. Let the tofu sit in the harissa mixture for at least 10 minutes to absorb all those incredible spices.
- Spacing is Key: When baking, ensure tofu cubes are spread out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the tofu instead of creating a crispy exterior.
- Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more if you're brave!
- Fresh Herbs Matter: The cilantro isn't just a garnish—it adds a fresh, bright note that cuts through the richness of the tofu.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with fluffy couscous, quinoa, or a light salad to balance the bold flavors of the harissa tofu.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 181kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
