Discover the delightful flavors of Japan with our mouthwatering Dengaku Grilled Tofu with Nerimiso! This dish is not just a feast for the taste buds; it's a beautiful harmony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Imagine perfectly grilled tofu, glazed with a sweet and savory miso blend, and topped with crunchy sesame seeds—it's a culinary experience you won't want to miss. Whether you're a tofu enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recipe is your ticket to an unforgettable meal. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let's dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 1/4 cup nerimiso (miso paste)
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the tofu block and press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps the tofu achieve a firmer texture and better absorption of flavors.
- While the tofu is pressing, prepare the nerimiso glaze by combining miso paste, mirin, and sugar in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated, with the sugar completely dissolved.
- Cut the pressed tofu block into 8 even rectangular pieces, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Ensure the pieces are uniform for consistent cooking.
- Preheat your grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the tofu pieces on the heated surface. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown grill marks appear and the surface is slightly crispy.
- Brush the nerimiso glaze generously over each side of the tofu during the last minute of grilling, allowing the sugars to caramelize slightly.
- Remove the tofu from heat and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Let the tofu rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to set and the temperature to stabilize before serving.
- Serve hot as a appetizer, side dish, or light main course, accompanied by steamed rice or a fresh green salad.
Tips
- Pressing the Tofu: Ensure you press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a firm texture and allowing the tofu to absorb the delicious nerimiso glaze.
- Uniform Cuts: When slicing the tofu, aim for even rectangular pieces. This ensures that each piece cooks uniformly and receives the perfect amount of glaze.
- Heat Control: Keep an eye on your grill or broiler temperature. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust without burning the glaze.
- Glaze Application: Brush the nerimiso glaze on during the last minute of grilling. This allows the sugars to caramelize beautifully, adding a rich depth of flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the toasted sesame seeds! They add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Dengaku Grilled Tofu with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also makes an excellent appetizer or side dish for any gathering!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
