Red Lentil Tofu
Ingredients
Method
- Add the lentils, spices (if using) and boiling water to your blender. Leave to soak in the blender for 15 minutes. Typically, the lentils will appear pale and have softened.
- Place the lid on the blender and blend the lentils until completely smooth. Gradually increase the blender speed to high. You likely will still need to stop and use a spatula to push larger particles back into the mix.
- Once smooth, pour the mixture into a medium saucepan. Place over medium-high heat, whisking constantly until the mixture becomes very thick and pasty, and more difficult to stir. This may take longer than 5 minutes.
- Be prepared and have a glass storage container nearby. Using a spatula, pour the mixture into a heat-safe glass container and spread it evenly without grease. It will start to set immediately, so work quickly in smoothing out the mixture so that when cut, the tofu cubes will be consistent.
- Place the prepared mix in the fridge for at least a couple of hours to set. Once set, turn the somewhat jelly-like mixture upside down and place it on a cutting board. Cut the block into 1” to 1 ½” cubes. I use an 8 x 8” glass baking dish and still need a small 3 x 6” container, and spread the mixture so I don’t need to cut a thicker block in half before cutting the cubes.
- This is a simple toss and cook mixture I like for excellent air-fried tofu. It also works well for baking and frying. Place the tofu cubes in a suitable mixing bowl, then sprinkle over the tapioca flour, nutritional yeast, coconut aminos, olive oil (leave out for oil-free), garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Use a spatula to gently toss and coat the tofu.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees (180C). Heat and wipe the fryer basket with oil to reduce sticking. Place the tofu in a single layer in the basket, allowing space between each cube for good circulation. Air fry the tofu for about 15 - 20 minutes, shaking the tofu loose 1 to 2 times, until golden.
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees (190C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Batter the tofu as instructed. Spread the tofu evenly across the baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through.
Notes
Lentil tofu, also known as Burmese tofu or Shan tofu, is usually made with yellow lentils or chickpeas. This delicious tofu-like high-protein food is made from legumes, like lentils, chickpeas, or green peas, rather than soybeans. This method is similar to a traditional dish from the Shan minority in Myanmar (Burma). Some also refer to it as red lentil tofu or pink tofu when made with red lentils.
I began my plant-based journey to health and happiness in 2012, with low expectations and poor health. Surprising and rapid results sparked a desire to help others believe in their own power to improve health and avoid disease through food choices that lead to a longer, vibrant, and compassionate lifestyle. Learn more…
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Quick, super easy, and delicious. My go-to choice when tired or it’s late. Packed with protein and fiber from bean pasta and lentils (or any other bean of choice).
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