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Vegan Black Pepper Tofu

Vegan Black Pepper Tofu is a bold, flavorful dish that features crispy tofu tossed in a rich, garlicky, spicy black pepper sauce. Inspired by Asian fusion cuisine, this dish is perfect for spice lovers and makes a satisfying plant-based dinner served over rice or noodles.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Vegan
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tofu:
  • 1 block 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp oil for pan-frying
  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water slurry
  • 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 –2 green chilies optional, for heat
  • For Garnish:
  • Green onions sliced
  • Sesame seeds optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare tofu:
  2. Toss tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat oil in a pan and fry tofu until golden and crispy. Set aside.
  3. Make sauce base:
  4. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin, maple syrup, vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Set aside.
  5. Sauté aromatics:
  6. In the same pan, sauté garlic, ginger, onion, and green chilies (if using) for 2–3 minutes until soft.
  7. Add sauce & thicken:
  8. Pour in the sauce and simmer for 1–2 minutes. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens.
  9. Combine tofu & serve:
  10. Add crispy tofu to the pan and toss to coat evenly with sauce. Serve hot with rice or noodles.

Notes

Use fresh cracked black pepper for best flavor.
You can air fry or bake tofu instead of pan-frying for a lighter option.
Add sautéed bell peppers or bok choy for extra veggies.