Almond tofu is one of our favorite vegan recipes, so we thought we would share this tasty treat with all of you.
We love how easy this dish is to make and what a great alternative to meat-based protein dishes that contain soy or wheat gluten.
Plus, there’s plenty of nutrients packed into every bite of almond tofu!
If you want to find out more about almond tofu, here’s everything you need to know…
- What are the main ingredients in an almond tofu recipe?
- How long does it take to prepare almond tofu?
- What are the health benefits of eating almond tofu?
- What type of tofu is best for an almond tofu recipe?
- How can I make a vegan almond tofu recipe?
- What kind of spices and herbs can be added to almond tofu?
- How do you make almond tofu sauce?
- What are some tips for making a delicious almond tofu recipe?
What Are The Main Ingredients In An Almond Tofu Recipe?
An almond tofu recipe uses all natural ingredients like almonds, water, salt, lemon juice, nutritional yeast (or “cheeze”), garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, and agar flakes.
You can use any kind of almond flour as well, but if you don’t have access to raw almonds then you will need to purchase them from your local grocery store instead.
The amount of almond flour used depends on personal preference.
Some people prefer their almond tofu very thick while others prefer theirs thinner.
You can adjust the thickness by adding more or less almond flour when preparing the tofu mixture.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare Almond Tofu?
It only takes 15 minutes to prep your almond tofu before baking it up.
That means once you have prepped the tofu, you will just have to set it aside until it’s ready to serve.
You can either bake it right away or let it cool completely first.
Either way, the result is always delicious!
Step 1: Preparing Almond Tofu Ingredients
First things first – if you haven’t prepared your own almond flour yet, then you should head over to my guide on how to make almond flour at home.
Once you have done this, you will need to grind your almonds using a blender or food processor as well as a nut milk bag (a kitchen tool).
I suggest grinding half of the nuts first, leaving them in the fridge overnight.
The next day, add the remaining ground almonds to the other half and mix them together again.
You don’t have to use both halves though – just keep mixing until they become fine enough for your liking.
Once you have mixed the two parts of the almond flour together, transfer them into a large bowl and place them somewhere warm to dry out further.
When the mixture has dried out, sift the almond flour through a strainer by rubbing the sides with your hands to remove any lumps.
The almond flour needs to be very fine in order to create a smooth texture when making almond tofu.
If you still see big chunks left after sifting, then continue grinding the rest of the almond flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 2: Making Almond Tofu Paste
Now that you have finely ground your almond flour, it’s time to start preparing the almond tofu paste.
Combine both parts of the almond flour together in a small bowl, stirring constantly.
Next, pour in the boiling water and stir continuously.
Keep adding more boiling water until the mixture becomes thick and sticky like peanut butter.
Once it’s ready, leave it alone for 5 minutes to allow it to cool down slightly.
While the almond tofu paste is cooling, heat up your oven to 200 degrees Celsius / 400 Fahrenheit.
Step 3: Baking Your Vegan Almond Tofu Recipe
When the almond tofu paste has cooled off, it’s time to put everything together.
Take a 9 x 13 inch baking tray and line it with aluminum foil.
Next, spread the almond tofu paste evenly across the bottom of the tray.
Then, carefully sprinkle the top layer of almond tofu with salt and pepper.
Add another piece of aluminum foil on top of the whole thing and press down firmly.
Now, pop the tofu into the oven and allow it to cook for 35 minutes.
After 35 minutes, remove the tofu from the oven and flip it over onto the opposite side.
Allow it to sit back in the oven for 10 minutes while the second side cooks.
After 10 minutes, remove the tofu from the oven and cut it into cubes.
Serve immediately.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Eating Almond Tofu?
Almond tofu has many different uses, but if you enjoy using your hands while cooking then it also makes a good finger food too.
You could add toppings such as chopped vegetables, sesame seeds, nori strips, etc., depending on your preference.
The possibilities really are endless.
There are many reasons why you should consider adding almond tofu to your diet.
For example, almond tofu contains high amounts of magnesium, which helps reduce inflammation throughout the body.
It also provides essential amino acids (protein building blocks) and healthy fats like omega 3 fatty acids.
These important components help maintain blood sugar levels and keep your brain and muscles working properly.
The other benefit of almond tofu is its ability to increase overall metabolism.
Almond tofu has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and enhance energy expenditure.
Not only that, but it also contains antioxidants called polyphenols.
Polyphenols have anti-inflammatory properties and may even protect against cancer development.
What Type Of Tofu Is Best For An Almond Tofu Recipe?
You have two options when it comes to choosing your tofu for almond tofu recipes – silken tofu (also known as bean curd) or regular tofu.
We prefer using silken because it doesn’t get rubbery after being cooked, which means you can eat it straight from the package without having to worry about it going bad quickly.
Regular tofu has a firmer texture than silken but it will still work well in vegan recipes.
If you’re not sure which to use, just follow these simple steps below to decide on which you should choose:
- Cut off both ends of the block of tofu.
- Slice the tofu lengthwise into 3/4 inch thick slices.
- Cover each slice with plastic wrap and freeze them until they become firm.
- Once frozen, remove the slices.
- Place tofu between paper towels and place another piece of paper towel on top of the tofu.
- Let sit for at least 20 minutes before cooking.
You can also buy pre-made packages of tofu that already have been cut up like pieces of chicken nuggets.
These are perfect if you don’t have the patience to prep your own tofu yourself.
How Can I Make A Vegan Almond Tofu Recipe?
This recipe uses silken firm tofu as its base ingredient because it has a smooth texture when cooked.
If you prefer firmer tofu, then choose regular firm or extra firm tofu instead.
You will also need fresh green beans, almonds, coconut oil, garlic, ground flaxseed, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
The rest of the ingredients should be kept on hand at all times while preparing your almond tofu.
The preparation process for this recipe takes just 10 minutes from start to finish (aside from soaking the almonds).
Once the tofu is done cooking, it needs to be drained and sliced before being served up to family and friends.
To serve, simply pour over enough almond tofu sauce to coat each slice of tofu evenly.
Add additional toppings like chopped cilantro if desired.
What Kind Of Spices And Herbs Can Be Added To Almond Tofu?
To make your own version of almond tofu, try adding different types of spices and herbs.
For example, garlic powder will add flavor while parsley adds color and nutrition.
You could also experiment by using dried chiles like cayenne pepper or chili flakes instead of fresh ones.
If you don’t have either, just leave them out altogether if you prefer not to spice up your tofu.
Parsley
One of the most common spices used in almond tofu recipes is parsley.
You can buy fresh parsley at many grocery stores now, but if you live somewhere where they don’t sell it yet, you might want to grow your own.
Parsley doesn’t last very long when cut straight from the plant, so growing your own gives you fresh, flavorful leaves throughout the year.
When choosing which variety of parsley to use, look for flat leafed varieties.
They taste better than curly leafed varieties.
Rosemary
Rosemary has a strong scent that lingers on your tongue after chewing.
Rosemary contains essential oils that help stimulate blood flow, improve digestion, and fight bacteria.
The oil helps protect against cancer cells as well.
Thyme
Thyme isn’t only good for cooking—it has been shown to reduce inflammation.
Thyme may even prevent certain kinds of cancers, including breast cancer.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, thyme also helps boost immunity.
Basil
The basil plant offers both culinary and medicinal uses.
Basil is known for its antioxidant and antibacterial qualities, plus it boosts energy levels and improves circulation.
There are over 100 species of basil found around the world, each having their own unique flavors and aromas.
Cilantro (coriander)
Most people associate cilantro with Mexican cuisine, but the herb actually originates in India.
Cilantro has powerful antioxidants and anti-cancer agents, plus it protects the liver.
It’s high in fiber and vitamins A and K, and it provides iron, calcium, potassium, folic acid, vitamin B1, and vitamin E.
Garlic
A staple food for centuries, garlic is full of antioxidants that support healthy skin and hair, plus it fights off viruses and bacteria.
Garlic is rich in minerals such as magnesium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, and iodine.
These elements are needed for proper thyroid function and metabolism, as well as bone growth and repair.
Onion
Like garlic, onions provide powerful anti-oxidants that keep your body free from disease.
Onions contain quercetin, which promotes heart health and lowers cholesterol, plus they’re loaded with Vitamin C, folate, niacin, pantothenic acid, and thiamine.
Onion juice is said to relieve pain caused by arthritis, gout, and rheumatism.
Soybeans
Soybeans offer numerous nutritional benefits, especially when ground down to create tofu.
Soybeans are high in dietary fibers, which lower bad LDL cholesterol.
Tofu itself is low in fat and calories, and it contains large amounts of protein, omega fatty acids, and amino acids.
Protein is necessary for repairing damaged tissues.
How Do You Make Almond Tofu Sauce?
This vegan almond tofu recipe is incredibly versatile – you can add pretty much anything you like to it.
You could use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger if your preferred spice isn’t available at your local supermarket.
Or, try adding chopped green onions along with the garlic if you’re feeling creative.
You can also experiment by using different types of nuts as well as seeds.
We recommend experimenting with hemp hearts because they have a nutty flavor but don’t taste too crunchy.
1. Place almonds on baking sheet and bake them until golden brown.
Add 1/4 cup water to pan and let simmer over medium heat while stirring frequently.
Once mixture starts bubbling, reduce heat to low and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow mixture to cool completely before processing.
2. Process almond butter into paste.
Once mixture has cooled down, transfer to Vitamix container or food processor fitted with a blade attachment (or other high speed blender).
Blend smooth, scraping sides occasionally as needed.
3. Add coconut oil and liquid aminos to almond tofu paste.
Blend thoroughly until creamy texture forms.
4. Transfer almond tofu paste to mixing bowl and whisk in remaining ingredients.
Mix thoroughly until incorporated and set aside.
What Are Some Tips For Making A Delicious Almond Tofu Recipe?
As always, when cooking anything new, start by reading through the instructions on your chosen recipe before starting off.
That way you won’t have to worry about following them incorrectly.
When using almonds as part of an almond tofu recipe, it’s important to soak them first.
The soaking process will help break down their hard outer skin and release their oil content.
You should also drain these nuts after they’ve been soaked.
Once you’re ready to begin preparing your almond tofu recipe, you will want to chop up your onion.
When chopping onions, try not to get too close to your cutting board – use a rubber spatula instead.
You don’t ever really need salt in your homemade almond tofu recipe, but if you feel like adding it, go ahead.
However, you shouldn’t add any additional seasoning until the end of the preparation process.
The next step in making almond tofu involves frying your chopped onion.
If you decide to fry your onion, you might want to add a little bit of olive oil to the pan first.
This helps prevent your onion from sticking to the bottom of the pan while frying.
After frying your onion, remove it from the heat source.
Once the onion has cooled down enough, chop it up and set aside.
Next, you will want to grind up the garlic cloves.
To do this, just place the garlic cloves in a food processor along with some extra virgin olive oil.
Pulse the mixture a few times until it becomes a paste.
Next, turn the food processor onto low speed and slowly pour in some water.
Blend the garlic paste and water together until fully combined.
Finally, transfer this mix to a bowl and stir in the rest of the ingredients.
Mix well and cover with plastic wrap.
Place the bowl somewhere cool, such as the refrigerator, to let the flavors combine overnight.
Now that you’ve prepared your almond tofu sauce, it’s time to move onto the actual tofu.
For this step, you will want to cut up your block of tofu and then slice each piece into one centimeter cubes (this will ensure even distribution throughout your sauce).
To cook your tofu, you will want to bring 2 quarts of water to a boil.
After boiling the water, reduce its temperature to medium-low heat and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes.
While waiting for the water to come to a boil, you will want to prep your almond tofu sauce by combining it with 1/4 cup of cornstarch.
Stirring constantly, gradually add the remaining almond tofu sauce ingredients into the cornstarch mixture.
Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, return it to the stovetop over medium heat and continue heating it for 5 minutes.
Remove the hot saucepan from the stove and gently fold in your tofu pieces into the sauce.
Let the mixture sit for another 30 seconds before transferring it to serving bowls.
How Can Almond Tofu Be Served?
Almond tofu is perfect as a filling side dish or even as a main course.
You can eat it plain, add your own toppings, or create your own sauces from scratch.
The possibilities are endless when creating your own almond tofu recipe! Here are just a few ideas on how to serve up this delicacy:
Serve almond tofu in a bowl with rice noodles, vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Add extra flavor by topping with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, crushed nori seaweed sheets, and/or pickled ginger.
Have it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish like salmon or swordfish.
Use almond tofu as a base for stir-fries or soup.
Top almond tofu with avocado slices, mango salsa, lime juice, cilantro leaves, and jalapeño peppers.
Make almond tofu burgers using nutritional yeast (a vegan cheese) and whole grain bread crumbs instead of ground almonds.
Topped with homemade BBQ sauce, almond tofu makes a quick and healthy snack.
Add almond tofu to pasta salad or toss it with romaine lettuce and tomatoes and top with balsamic vinegar dressing.
What Creative Variations Can Be Made To An
The only limit when creating your own almond tofu recipe is your imagination.
Here are just a few suggestions for how to serve up your new creation at home.
Tofu stir fry
Serve this healthy vegetarian recipe over brown rice noodles for a complete meal.
Stir fry tofu and vegetables
Use whatever vegetables you have on hand – asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, mushrooms, zucchini, eggplant, onions, peppers, etc.
– but try not to use too many different veggies in case they don’t work well together.
Baked Almond Tofu Skins
These baked tofu skins will satisfy even picky eaters who aren’t fans of tofu.
Avocado cream
Put this creamy avocado dip between two slices of bread and enjoy it like a sandwich.
Cheese cubes
Cut up some firm tofu and bake it until crispy.
Then top each cube with cheese of choice (we prefer Boursin) before serving hot.
Vegan chicken salad
Combine leftover cooked chickpeas, almonds and sunflower seeds in a bowl with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Add chopped celery and red onion for extra crunch.
Equipment
- pudding container
Ingredients
- ½ cup sweet apricot Kernel pre-soaked in the previous day in fridge
- 2 cups water for apricot seed milk
- 2 cups milk
- 6-7 g agar agar
- 1 cup water for cooking the agar
- ¼ cup crystal sugar can create a very faint sweetness, or more if needed (adjust based on how the dessert is served)
Serving with sweet-scented osmanthus
- 1 tbsp. osmanthus syrup
- 1 cup hot water
Instructions
- Soak the sweet apricot kernel overnight in clean water. Remember to put it in the fridge. Place the soaked apricot kernel in the blender, followed by 2 cups of water. Blend thoroughly. To obtain the milk, drain. Don’t throw away the pulp; instead, sun-dry it and use it in cookies.
- Soak agar agar strips for 1 hour in cold water.
- Heat 1 cup of water and soaked agar in a small pot until the agar strips are almost dissolved! Be patient if this takes longer than 10 minutes.
- Simmer for another 8-10 minutes after adding the sugar and apricot kernel milk to the mixture. Turn off the heat and add the milk. Combine thoroughly.
- Repeat the straining of the mixture. Because agar is difficult to dissolve completely, make certain that they are removed. Use a pudding container, a bowl, or a large container. Set aside to cool. When the temperature of the liquid drops to 40 degrees Celsius, the dessert can be firmed at room temperature. Then serve immediately or chill before serving.
- Serve with canned or fresh fruits
- Combine 1 cup hot water and 1 tablespoon osmanthus syrup. Place aside to cool.
- Changing the matcha powder
Video
Nutrition
My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.