Description
This Vegan Sofritas recipe offers a flavorful plant-based alternative featuring extra-firm tofu simmered in a smoky, spicy chipotle tomato sauce. Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or salads, it combines warming spices and tangy adobo peppers for a rich and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Tofu and Seasoning
- 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained
- 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables and Spices
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (can add more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
Sauce
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: Wrap the block of extra-firm tofu in a clean dish towel and place a heavy object on top. Let it press for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture when cooking.
- Brown the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the pressed tofu into very small pieces and add to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Allow it to cook undisturbed until the bottom side is browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Stir and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the tofu is browned all over, about 10 more minutes. Reduce heat as needed to prevent burning. Transfer tofu to a plate.
- Sauté Onion and Spices: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Cook until the onion is softened and beginning to brown, approximately 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin, cooking while stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: While onions cook, combine chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, diced tomatoes, and granulated sugar in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Combine Tofu and Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into the skillet with the sautéed onion and spices. Add the cooked tofu and stir well to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Serve: Serve the sofritas warm over burrito bowls, in tacos, or layered in a fresh salad for a delicious and versatile meal.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential for a better texture and to avoid sogginess.
- Adjust chili powder and chipotle peppers to control the spice level.
- This sofritas recipe is excellent as a protein-packed topping for Mexican-inspired dishes.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce texture, blend longer for a fine puree.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
