What To Know
- Transfer the tofu cubes to a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Reduce the amount of soy sauce in the sauce or add a little bit of water or honey to balance the flavors.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Wagamama’s signature tofu dish with our comprehensive recipe. This delectable dish, brimming with umami goodness, is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the soy sauce and cornstarch.
4. Add the tofu cubes to the mixture and toss to coat.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Transfer the tofu cubes to a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Make the Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Assemble the Dish:
1. Place the crispy tofu cubes in a serving bowl.
2. Pour the sauce over the tofu and toss to coat.
3. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Variations
- Spicy Tofu: Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Veggie-Packed Tofu: Sauté chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli before adding the tofu to the pan.
- Teriyaki Tofu: Replace the soy sauce in the sauce with teriyaki sauce.
- Ginger-Garlic Tofu: Add extra grated ginger and minced garlic to the sauce for a more intense flavor.
Tips
- For the crispiest tofu, press out as much liquid as possible before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the tofu. Cook it in batches if necessary.
- Let the tofu cool slightly before slicing it to prevent it from crumbling.
- Serve the tofu with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Health Benefits of Tofu
- Tofu is an excellent source of protein, iron, and calcium.
- It is low in calories and fat.
- Tofu contains isoflavones, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
“Wagamama” Experience at Home
Recreating the authentic Wagamama tofu experience at home is easy. Simply follow our recipe and enjoy the burst of umami flavors that have made Wagamama a global culinary sensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to press tofu?
A: Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place it between two heavy objects, such as cutting boards or cast iron skillets.
Q: Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?
A: Regular tofu will not get as crispy as extra-firm tofu. However, you can still use it by pressing it for longer.
Q: How can I make the sauce less salty?
A: Reduce the amount of soy sauce in the sauce or add a little bit of water or honey to balance the flavors.
