Crispy Baked Tofu Bowl with Peanut Lime Sauce

Finding a delicious and healthy vegetarian meal can be a challenge, especially when it comes to getting enough protein. But fear not, because this crispy baked tofu bowl with peanut lime sauce is here to save your taste buds and your health.

Tofu is one of those ingredients that can be hit or miss, depending on how it's prepared. But this recipe takes tofu to a whole new level, coating it in a crunchy panko and almond crust before being baked to perfection. And the tangy peanut lime sauce adds the perfect balance of flavor and creaminess to this dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of extra firm tofu
• 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF option)
• 1/4 cup of almond flour
• 1/4 cup of unsalted almonds, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 cup of peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of lime juice
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Cooked brown rice or quinoa
• Assorted vegetables (we recommend bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
• Cilantro and sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
2. Drain and press the tofu to remove excess water. Slice into bite-size cubes.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, almond flour, chopped almonds, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip each tofu cube into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to coat all sides.
5. Place the coated tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is crispy and golden brown.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, honey, and minced garlic until smooth and creamy.
8. Cook the brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
9. In a separate pan, sauté the vegetables of your choice until tender.
10. Assemble your bowl by starting with the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by the crispy tofu, sautéed vegetables, and a generous drizzle of the peanut lime sauce.
11. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
12. Enjoy your delicious and protein-packed tofu bowl!

This recipe makes for a perfect weeknight meal, as it is quick and easy to prepare. And if you have any leftovers, the tofu can be reheated in the oven to maintain its crispiness. So go ahead and add this crispy baked tofu bowl with peanut lime sauce to your meal rotation – your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you!