Zesty Taco Vegetarian Bowl Recipe

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €7.67 · €1.28/serving

• 1 14-oz. block firm or extra-firm tofuEst. price €1.80–€3.20
• cup extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €4.50–€12.00
• Kosher saltEst. price €0.02–€0.05
• 2 garlic cloves, smashedEst. price €0.15–€0.40
• 2 tsp. ground corianderEst. price €0.20–€0.50
• 1 tsp. ancho powder or sweet smoked paprikaEst. price €0.25–€0.60
• 1 tsp. ground cuminEst. price €0.15–€0.40
• tsp. ground fennelEst. price €0.25–€0.60
• 1 Tbsp. double-concentrated tomato pasteEst. price €0.15–€0.35
• 2 tsp. hot sauceEst. price €0.10–€0.30

Steps

1. 1

   Press the tofu firmly to remove excess water, allowing it to crack and fall apart if needed. Tear the tofu into pieces measuring 1 to 2 inches in size.

2. 2

   Begin by heating oil in a spacious nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Introduce the tofu, season with salt, and cook while occasionally tossing until it achieves a golden brown color and becomes crispy around the edges, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Utilize a rubber spatula to break the tofu into pieces measuring between ½"–1". Next, add garlic to the skillet and continue cooking while tossing occasionally until all tofu pieces are uniformly crispy, approximately for another 3 minutes.

3. 3

   Lower the heat to a medium setting on the stove. Introduce coriander, ancho powder, cumin, and fennel into the pan. Stir continuously as the spices start to intensify in color, which should take around 20 seconds. Incorporate tomato paste into the mixture and stir using a rubber spatula until the paste slightly deepens in color; this should take approximately 1 minute. Next, pour in hot sauce followed by 1 cup of water. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and continue cooking without covering the pot while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens, which should be about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt to taste once done cooking.

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• Cultural note

  The Zesty Taco Vegetarian Bowl is a fusion dish inspired by Mexican and Mediterranean flavors. It showcases a blend of spices and ingredients commonly used in both cuisines, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience.

• Seasonal note

  This Zesty Taco Vegetarian Bowl is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round, but fresh vegetables and herbs used as toppings can be sourced locally during the summer months.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of plant-based protein from the tofu and healthy fats from olive oil. It is low in carbohydrates and sugar, making it a suitable option for those watching their carb intake. The spices such as ground cumin and coriander provide added health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties.