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Jamaican Jerk Tofu (Authentic & Delicious) Recipe

Jamaican Jerk Tofu (Authentic & Delicious) Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 8 reviews

This Jamaican Jerk Tofu recipe is an authentic and delicious plant-based twist on traditional jerk flavors. Using extra firm tofu coated in jerk paste and cornstarch, then pan-fried to crispy perfection before being simmered in a savory jerk barbecue sauce, this dish delivers bold Caribbean spices with a satisfying texture that’s perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and Coating

  • 1 block (14-16 ounces) extra firm tofu, pressed
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch (or 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder)
  • 1 teaspoon jerk paste (for marinating)

Sauce

  • 2 teaspoons jerk paste (for coating sauce)
  • 2 teaspoons BBQ sauce
  • 2 teaspoons ketchup
  • 1/4 cup water (for gravy)

For Frying

  • 2 tablespoons oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Tofu: If using unpressed extra firm tofu, wrap it in a towel and press for 30 minutes using a cast iron skillet or heavy books to remove excess water. If pre-pressed, pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Tear Tofu: Tear the pressed tofu block into bite-sized pieces rather than cutting to help the marinade penetrate better.
  3. Marinate and Coat: Coat tofu pieces with 1 teaspoon jerk paste and corn starch, tossing gently until well combined to ensure a crispy exterior when fried.
  4. Fry Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry tofu pieces for about 5-6 minutes on each side, turning until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Prepare Sauce: In the same pan, add 2 teaspoons jerk paste, 2 teaspoons BBQ sauce, 2 teaspoons ketchup, and 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine and simmer for 2 minutes to create a flavorful gravy that coats the tofu.
  6. Combine and Serve: Toss the fried tofu in the sauce until fully coated and heated through. Serve hot as a flavorful main or side dish.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu is essential to remove excess moisture and achieve a crispy texture.
  • Tearing tofu instead of cutting allows better absorption of the marinade and flavors.
  • Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying such as vegetable or canola oil.
  • Adjust the amount of jerk paste based on your preferred spice level.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, plantains, or steamed vegetables for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jamaican Jerk Tofu, Jerk Tofu recipe, Vegan Jerk, Caribbean tofu, Spicy tofu, Vegan Caribbean recipes

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/jamaican-jerk-tofu-authentic-and-delicious-recipe/