Lemon Pepper Tofu

Before going plant based, I lived off lemon pepper chicken. Sadly, when I went vegan it took me over a year to adapt or shall I say… tolerate tofu. Once I started slightly enjoying it, I tried to make a lemon pepper tofu dish. Unfortunately the tofu did not pick up any of the lemon. 

Well, four years into this lifestyle and I have finally mastered my all time favorite lemon pepper tofu. This simple, easy recipe will change your tofreaky life!  

First things first, FREEZE YOUR TOFU! Yes, I said freeze it. If you haven't heard of this method yet, well I am here to pass it along to you and change your life. I know this sounds like an annoying hassle or lengthy step that you don't have time for, but its worth it. 

To save time, next time you go to the grocery store instead of buying one tofu by two. When you get home just simply freeze one. I like to take it out of the plastic box, pour out the liquid, dab it with a towel and place it in a zip block bag. Toss it in the freezer. 

When you're ready to make this recipe pull out the tofu and let it defrost in some water. If you don't want to wait the extra time then feel free to microwave it for about five minutes or so (depending how strong your microwave is).   Now we’re ready to get started.

 Ingredients needed: 

• 1 Half of a tofu block

• 2 large fresh lemons

• Trader Joe’s Lemon Pepper seasoning (any brand is okay)

• Trader Joe’s vegan Chicken-less seasoning 

• 2 Teaspoon of olive oil (optional) 

Note: if you don't want to make the trip for this vegan chicken seasoning which I highly recommend you do because it'll change your life. You can use onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric; as that is essentially what the Trader Joes Chickn seasoning is mixed with.

Step 1:

Slice up half of the frozen tofu into rectangles and place it in a bowl. 

Step 2:

Squeeze the three lemons over your tofu making sure ALL the juice is out. Use a lemon presser if you have one. 

Step 3:

Add your olive oil (optional), lemon pepper and vegan chicken-less seasonings to the top (we will season the back while it’s grilling). I did not input measurements for the seasonings as you'll just need to use as much as it takes to coat the top.  

Step 4:

Let your tofu marinate for approx. 20 minutes. You can use this time to prep any other sides you are having with it. 

Step 5:

Turn on your stove to medium high. Place your tofu slices on a skillet and grill the first side for 3-4 minutes or until its charred. The length of time will likely depend on which type of pan you are using. Non-stick pans may cook faster while skillets are thicker thus might take longer. Pour half of the marinade over your tofu. 

Step 6:

Flip the tofu. Go in and add some of the seasonings to the back while repeating step 5.  

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! 

This lemon pepper tofu pairs well with just about anything— on top of garlic noodles, rice or even salads. If you make it please send me photos or leave a review of the recipe :)