Lemon Teriyaki Tofu

It’s common knowledge that tofu is an excellent source of protein, containing all eight essential amino acids. Tofu is packed with iron and calcium, and contains a slew of trace minerals that you may not know your body is lacking, like selenium, copper, and zinc. While I love tofu, I am in on the secret that tofu is only as good as the marinade or sauces it is cooked in. Otherwise it can be a bland, boring nightmare.

In this marinade the sweetness of honey mingles with tangy teriyaki sauce. A splash of lemonade and a dash of lemon pepper lend a delightful zing to the tofu. This is one of my favorite ways to make tofu. I like to serve the finished product on top of udon noodles with peanut sauce and vegetables, but it goes great with almost anything. Try it on top of a salad or with a creamy pasta, however you eat it, you won’t be disappointed you tried it.

• 1 block of extra firm tofu

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 tablespoons lemonade

• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining 1 tablespoon of the olive oil with the teriyaki sauce, honey, lemonade, lemon pepper, garlic powder and onion salt. Stir until thoroughly combined and set aside.
  2. Drain the excess water from the tofu by placing the block of tofu between two heavy plates lined with paper towels and putting a heavier object on top of the plates, such as a can of beans. Allow the tofu to drain for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer.
  3. Cube the tofu and transfer to a dish that has a lid. Pour the marinade evenly over the tofu and put the lid in place. Shake the tofu around in the lidded dish a few times to evenly distribute the marinade.
  4. Allow the marinated tofu to sit in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. The longer you allow the tofu to marinate, the better. I typically marinate for about 4 to 6 hours.
  5. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet. Cook the tofu in the skillet for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking of the tofu.
  6. Allow to cool for 2 minutes in the pan before serving warm with your favorite dish.