Tofu with a Sweet and Savory Marinade

5 minutes to assemble marinade
30 minutes to marinate
10 minutes to cook
Total time: 45 minutes

4 servings

5 minutes to assemble marinade
30 minutes to marinate
10 minutes to cook
Total time: 45 minutes

4 servings

A Taste of Thai Garlic Chili Pepper Sauce and molasses give this pan-seared tofu an intense flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup molasses
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Garlic Chili Pepper Sauce
2 tablespoons Fish Sauce*
2 tablespoons lime juice
1-14 oz package extra firm tofu, drained
Oil for pan-searing
Optional: Chopped cilantro
* To make this a vegetarian meal, substitute two extra tablespoons of soy sauce for the Fish Sauce.

Whisk molasses, soy sauce, Garlic Chili Pepper Sauce, Fish Sauce and lime juice in a bowl until mixed.
Cut tofu into 6-7 one half inch thick slices. Lay slices on double thickness of paper towel. Cover with paper towel and press down firmly until water is absorbed. Change paper towels and continue pressing until tofu is almost dry.
Place tofu in a size appropriate dish where slices will fit snugly but not overlap. Pour marinade over tofu, reserving 1/2 cup for a dipping sauce, if desired. Marinate 30 minutes.
Remove marinated tofu to dry paper towels and pat dry. Meanwhile pour enough oil into a large skillet to cover bottom and heat over a medium high temperature.
Add tofu to hot oil and pan-sear on each side until dark golden in color. Drain and serve with reserved sauce and sprinkle with cilantro if desired.

This sauce packs heat and a ton of flavor. Use it as a hot sauce or add a dash to spice up your favorite recipes.

Thais use Fish Sauce the way other cultures use soy sauce. Its savory and salty flavors are perfect for stir-frys, curries, marinades and dressings.