Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze

Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with these Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze! This recipe combines the savory goodness of tofu with the sweet and tangy flavors of teriyaki glaze, creating a mouthwatering dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just dipping your toes into plant-based cuisine, these meatballs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall head over heels for these Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze. Here are a few standout points:

1. A perfect balance of protein-packed tofu and umami-rich teriyaki sauce.

2. Simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.

3. Versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even meal prep option.

4. Kid-friendly and great for introducing plant-based alternatives to traditional meatballs.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delectable recipe:

Ingredients

For the Tofu Meatballs:

– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Teriyaki Glaze:

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons maple syrup

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 clove garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon grated ginger

– 1 teaspoon cornstarch

– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, crumble the pressed tofu using your hands.

3. Add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the tofu.

4. Mix all the ingredients until well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake the tofu meatballs for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm.

6. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki glaze by combining soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch in a small saucepan.

7. Cook the glaze over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Remove from heat.

8. Once the meatballs are done, brush them with the teriyaki glaze and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

9. Serve the Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze pair perfectly with steamed white rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve them with stir-fried vegetables or roasted broccoli. You can also enjoy them as a finger food appetizer at your next gathering!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

– Swap the teriyaki glaze for a sweet and sour sauce for a tangy twist.

– Add finely chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots to the tofu mixture for extra crunch and color.

– Experiment with different herbs and spices like cilantro, cumin, or smoked paprika to change up the flavor profile.

Pro Tips for Success

For the best texture, make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before using it in the meatball mixture. This will help the meatballs hold their shape and prevent them from becoming too soft.

Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the tofu mixture to suit your taste preferences. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

If you prefer a crispy exterior on your meatballs, you can pan-fry them in a bit of oil before adding the teriyaki glaze.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze these tofu meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well! Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag once they have cooled completely. To reheat, bake them in the oven until heated through.

2. Can I make the tofu meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This is a great time-saving option for busy weeknights.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats in place of traditional breadcrumbs to make these meatballs gluten-free. Additionally, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure the recipe is gluten-friendly.

4. How long will the teriyaki glaze keep in the refrigerator?

The teriyaki glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before using it on the meatballs.

5. Can I use this teriyaki glaze on other dishes?

Absolutely! This versatile teriyaki glaze is perfect for drizzling over stir-fries, grilled tofu, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for spring rolls. Get creative and enjoy it in various ways!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate your plant-based cooking game. Whether you’re a vegan veteran or just starting your journey towards a more sustainable diet, this recipe is a must-try. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a delicious meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation like no other!

Vegan Tofu Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze

Recipe by Author

★★★★☆

4.5 from 87 votes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian

Difficulty: medium

🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep time

20 minutes

🔥

Cooking time

35 minutes

📊

Calories

280 kcal

Pin Print

Enjoy the savory goodness of tofu combined with sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze in these Vegan Tofu Meatballs. Perfect for any occasion, these meatballs are easy to make and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option!

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Ingredients

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Crumble the pressed tofu in a large mixing bowl, then add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the tofu meatballs for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and firm.
5. While the meatballs bake, prepare the teriyaki glaze by combining soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook until thickened.
6. Brush the cooked meatballs with the teriyaki glaze and return them to the oven for 5 more minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 280

Fat: 9

Carbohydrates: 33

Protein: 18

Sodium: 1100

Fiber: 5

Sugar: 8