Red Lentil Tofu
Redefine how you enjoy tofu with this tantalizing red lentil tofu recipe that combines the silky smoothness of tofu and the nourishing benefits of red lentils. Packed with plant-based protein, this tofu can be used in stir-fries, curries, salads, and even as a meat substitute in sandwiches or wraps for a nutrient-rich protein-packed meal.
More Protein Packed Recipes
VEGAN SHEET PAN FAJITAS WITH TOFU
Why You’ll Love This Red Lentil Tofu Recipe
Simple and Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and equipment to create a protein-packed soy-free tofu in no time.
Nutrient Packed: Red lentil tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this tofu is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional soy-based tofu.
Heart-Healthy: By incorporating red lentil tofu into your diet instead of animal based protein, you can reduce your intake of unhealthy fats while enjoying a delicious and filling meal. The absence of cholesterol in red lentil tofu supports cardiovascular health.
Packed with Protein and Fiber: Red lentil tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein enriched with dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion, and aiding in weight management.
Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe is simple to prepare. You can create homemade tofu that rivals store-bought options with just a few ingredients and basic cooking techniques. It requires minimal time and effort, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of fresh and homemade tofu without the hassle.
How To Make Red Lentils Tofu
Prepare the Red Lentils
Add your lentils and boiling water to a blender and let that sit for 10-15 minutes for the lentils to cook slightly.
Blend and Season
Once the lentils have softened, blend them until smooth. Add in the salt or any spices or seasonings of your choice. Blend until well incorporated.
Cook and Thicken
Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. It should take about 5-7 minutes.
Mold the Red Lentils Tofu
Transfer the thickened mixture into a container of your choice, which will act as the mold for your red lentil tofu.
Chill and Set
Let that sit in the fridge for 3-4 hours to set and become firm.
Slice and Cook
Once the red lentil tofu has set, remove it from the container and slice it into cubes.
Drizzle some olive oil and spices on top for added flavor. To achieve a crispy texture, bake or air-fry the seasoned red lentils tofu cubes. You can also pan fry although it is not as crispy as soy-based tofu.
Recipe Tips
- Spice it up! Feel free to jazz it up and add any seasonings and spices you’d like! You can add nutritional yeast for cheesiness, smoked paprika, onion, garlic powder, or whatever else your heart desires!
- Cooking techniques: You can bake, air fry or pan fry your lentil tofu, although I found that the tofu got very too mushy for my liking when pan frying. I recommend air frying or baking to get a nice crispy exterior.
- Can I use green lentils? Yes, you can use any lentils you’d like, as long as they are dried lentils!
- Do I need to grease my container? No, you do not need to grease your container. I tried with and without grease, and they came out with no problem!
- How do I eat my red lentil tofu? You can air-fry, bake or pan your tofu until crispy and serve it just as you would regular tofu! Serve over a nourishing bowl, add to pasta, or dunk it in your favorite dip!
- Does this taste like regular tofu? Although the block looks similar to soy-based tofu, it does have a slightly different texture and taste. It has more lentil flavor, is squishier, and is less firm than soy-based tofu. If you love tofu, it is worth a try!
- Can I freeze red lentil tofu? While it is possible to freeze red lentil tofu, the texture may slightly change upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for optimal taste and texture.
More Vegan Recipes You’ll Love
Want more FREE plant based recipes?
Make sure to follow me on all my social platforms:
✨Instagram @That.VeganBabe
🍍TikTok @That.VeganBabe
💜Facebook @ThatVeganBabe
🍉Pinterest @ThatVeganBabe
Red Lentil Tofu
Ingredients
- ¾ cup red lentils
- 1.5 cups boiling water
- 1.5 cups room temperature water
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Add your lentils and boiling water to a blender and let that sit for 10-15 minutes for the lentils to cook slightly.
- Blend until smooth, adding salt and any spices of your choice.
- Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan along with the room temperature water and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. It should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture into a container of your choice; this will be your mold.
- Let that sit in the fridge for 3-4 hours to set and become firmer.
- Turn your container upside down to remove your red lentil tofu.
- Slice your red lentil tofu into cubes, drizzle on some olive oil and spices, and bake or air-fry until crispy. You can also pan fry although it is not as crispy as soy-based tofu.