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Grilled Tofu Caprese with Yuzu Kosho Pesto

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    ChefPandas
    Twitter

🍽️ Recipe Overview

  • Cuisine : Italian-Japanese Fusion
  • Dietary : High-Fiber, Vegetarian
  • Difficulty : Easy
  • Method : Grill

👨‍🍳 Chef's Notes

Grilling tofu adds a smoky flavor and chewy texture that perfectly complements the fresh flavors of the Caprese salad. The Yuzu Kosho Pesto provides a tangy kick that elevates the dish to a whole new level of taste and aroma.

⭐ Why This Recipe Works

Grilling the tofu enhances its texture and flavor profile, while the Yuzu Kosho Pesto adds a unique citrusy and spicy note to the traditional Caprese salad, creating a harmonious fusion of Italian and Japanese influences.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 300g firm tofu, sliced (10.5 oz)
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • 200g fresh mozzarella, sliced (7 oz)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp Yuzu Kosho
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

🔪 Preparation

  1. Press tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Prepare the Yuzu Kosho Pesto by blending Yuzu Kosho, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
  3. Season tofu slices with salt and pepper.

🥘 Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill tofu slices for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
  3. Assemble the Caprese salad by layering grilled tofu, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
  4. Drizzle Yuzu Kosho Pesto over the salad.
  5. Serve immediately.

⏱️ Timing Breakdown

  • Preparation: 15 mins
  • Cooking: 10 mins
  • Total: 25 mins

📊 Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 327
  • Protein: 21g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 24g

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

  • For a vegan version, substitute fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese or avocado slices.
  • Use different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique flavor twist.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, marinate tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before grilling.
  • Make extra Yuzu Kosho Pesto to use as a flavorful dressing for other dishes.

🌡️ Storage Instructions

Store any leftover grilled tofu separately from the salad components to maintain freshness. Reheat tofu in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then assemble the salad just before serving for the best taste and texture.