Best 2 Italian Tofu Meatballs Recipes
In the realm of culinary delights, the quest for a delectable vegetarian alternative to traditional meatballs has led to the innovative creation of Italian tofu meatballs. These plant-based wonders offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, capturing the essence of Italian flavors while accommodating dietary preferences and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the secrets of crafting these delectable tofu meatballs, transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of tastes and textures.
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ITALIAN TOFU MEATBALLS
They're the same as Italian meatballs but with tofu. I had to go through many recipes and cobble pieces together to get something that tasted normal. Olive oil helps them crisp up in the oven. I ate these with basic marinara and they were delicious.
Provided by orb205
Categories 100+ Everyday Cooking Recipes Vegetarian Protein Tofu
Time 1h10m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Place tofu onto a plate and place another plate on top. Set a 3- to 5-pound weight on top. Press tofu for 15 minutes to drain excess water. Break tofu into small pieces and squeeze again to remove as much water as possible.
- Place tofu in a large bowl. Add onion, egg, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, basil, marjoram, rosemary, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, hot sauce, and garlic; mix well with your hands until thoroughly combined.
- Drizzle some olive oil on the lined baking sheet. Form tablespoonfuls of tofu mixture into balls and arrange in rows on the baking sheet. Drizzle remaining olive oil over meatballs.
- Bake in the preheated oven until browned and firm to the touch, 25 to 30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 338.5 calories, Carbohydrate 19 g, Cholesterol 55.3 mg, Fat 23.2 g, Fiber 2.1 g, Protein 15.9 g, SaturatedFat 4.9 g, Sodium 917.4 mg, Sugar 4.3 g
ITALIAN TOFU MEATBALLS
I stole this recipe from a vegetarian woman I worked with from Italy. One of my first and favorite recipes.
Provided by Suzy_Q
Categories Soy/Tofu
Time 1h10m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350.
- Drain tofu well and cut into several large cubes. Put the tofu into food processor with garlic cloves and grind until combined. Put tofu mixture into a bowl and mix with the ricotta, egg, parmesan (if using) and gradually add breadcrumbs until you get a workable consistencey- you may need less or more. Mix thoroughly and add salt (about 1/2 teaspoons or so) and fresh pepper. Form balls out of the mixture (about 1.5 inches) making sure they are held together well and roll in the remaining breadcrumbs (if you need more breadcrumbs just use more).
- Grease a baking sheet and place the tofu balls on the sheet. Bake for 35-45 minutes, until form, carefully turning halfway through.
- Serve as is, with tomato sauce, pesto or my favorite -- over spaghetti.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 144.7, Fat 8.4, SaturatedFat 2.9, Cholesterol 62.4, Sodium 70.1, Carbohydrate 4.6, Fiber 1.1, Sugar 0.9, Protein 14.6
Tips:
1. Choosing Tofu: - Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the meatballs to achieve a meat-like texture. - Press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before using, ensuring that the meatballs hold together well. 2. Seasoning and Herbs: - Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavor of the tofu meatballs. - Consider using fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for a fragrant and flavorful twist. - Adding a touch of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle kick of spice. 3. Binding Ingredients: - Use ingredients like bread crumbs, oats, or quinoa to help bind the tofu meatballs. - They provide texture and help keep the meatballs intact during cooking. - Adding an egg can also help bind the ingredients, but it is optional. 4. Cooking Methods: - Pan-frying: Cook the meatballs in a pan with a little oil over medium heat until golden brown on all sides. - Baking: Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. - Air-frying: Air-fry the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until crispy and cooked through. 5. Serving Suggestions: - Serve the tofu meatballs with your favorite pasta dishes, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine. - Create a flavorful sauce, such as tomato sauce, pesto, or Alfredo sauce, to complement the meatballs. - Garnish the dish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.Conclusion:
With their tender texture and delicious flavor, these Italian tofu meatballs are a versatile and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional meatballs. Whether you're looking for a hearty and flavorful meal or a healthier option, these meatballs are sure to impress. Experiment with different seasonings, cooking methods, and serving suggestions to create a dish that reflects your personal taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a delicious and satisfying meal that's both healthy and packed with flavor!
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