Tofu is wonderful in its ability to adapt to any cuisine. It is a blank canvas in terms of flavour though is highly nutritious when considering its protein profile. Notching up protein within a meal and reducing the carbohydrate quota allows for satiety, satisfaction and thermogenesis (the ability of the body to speed up metabolism) so incredible for weight loss. Protein is also the macronutrient which is frequently missed when new vegan or vegetarian habits are adopted so having a go with this product is a great move. As its so versatile you can get very creative.
A tip for those starting out with tofu is to choose a dish that is easily recognisable to your palate and then work out which flavoured tofu suits your needs. There are so many different varieties. Here I have used a classic pesto pasta dish (gluten free if this works better for you). Simply cook up your usual pasta but not as much as you are boosting the protein/carbohydrate ration. Fusilli works well.
Whilst this is cooking cut a chunk of halloumi into cubes and fry until crispy and browned. Similarly cut a chunk of my current favourite Taifun Rosso Tofu into small cubes and fry alongside the halloumi, turning both constantly to create crisp edges. This tofu is the Italian product which contains herbs such as parsley, basil and oregano which lend themselves to a Mediterranean style of cooking.
Once the pasta is cooked drain, add to a dry pan and stir in a large dose of pesto sauce and a handful of rocket and spinach which has been roughly snipped with kitchen scissors. Keep this on a low heat until the flavours combine and the sauce is warm. Around five minutes should do it.
Add the tofu and halloumi to the pasta and season with Himalayan sea salt and black pepper. Decorate with fresh basil leaves.
Tofu Rosso ingredients:
Tofu* 76% (SOYBEANS* 55%, water, coagulating agents: magnesium chloride, calcium sulfate), sunflower oil*, olives* 7,4%, tomatoes* 5,9%, vegetable broth* (sea salt, yeast extract*, sunflower oil*, leek*, carrots*, CELERY*, mace*, nutmeg*, parsley*), garlic*, sweet paprika*, hot paprika*, chili* 0,04%, wine vinegar*, parsley*, basil*, thyme*, oregano*, rosemary*, savory*, tarragon*.
May contain traces of gluten, nuts, mustard and sesame seeds.
* organically grown