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Keto Bourbon Tofu 🍽️

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Our Keto Bourbon Tofu is an Asian-inspired dish that combines the magic of savory ingredients, a touch of spice, and a splash of bourbon to create a symphony of flavors. It's a perfect plant-based option for vegans or vegetarians and an excellent source of protein. Let's make your keto diet amazing with some crispy tofu!

Keto Bourbon Tofu in a cast iron skillet
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Is tofu keto?

Tofu is an excellent choice for the keto lifestyle. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and contains good protein and healthy fats, making it suitable for a keto diet. However, as with any food, it's essential to moderate your intake and account for the carb content when planning your meals. Also, choosing firmer tofu varieties can help reduce the carb content.

Check out Is Tofu Keto? for an in-depth understanding of this topic!

Preparation and cooking overview

Making Bourbon Tofu is an absolute breeze, even for beginners! Simply marinate the cubed tofu in a tasty blend of sweetener, ketchup, tamari, broth, bourbon, and a medley of flavorful spices. After marinating, dip it in cornstarch and pan-fry until perfectly golden and crispy. Finally, simmer some marinade with the tofu, and in just 1 hour and 15 minutes, you'll have a mouthwatering tofu dish ready to be devoured!

Chef's note

Want to elevate this already delicious meal? Here are a few ideas to take your keto tofu to the next level! For a burst of freshness, garnish with some thinly sliced green onions or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top. If you're feeling adventurous, add a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick of flavor.

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 4 Servings

🍽️ Ingredients for this keto bourbon tofu recipe

To make this Keto Tofu, you will need the following simple ingredients!

  • 1 pound extra firm tofu, pressed (we use Hodo, which comes already pressed)
  • 1 ½ ounces bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons granulated low-carb sweetener, we used allulose
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened ketchup, we used Primal Kitchen
  • 2 tablespoons tamari
  • ¼ cup vegetable broth
  • 1 small chili pepper finely minced, we used a red serrano
  • 1 small clove of garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
keto bourbon tofu ingredients

Ingredient substitutions

Do you see something you want to swap? We've got you covered with some fantastic ingredient substitutions that are keto-friendly! Here's a handy list:

  • Granulated low-carb sweetener: Instead of granulated low-carb sweetener, use erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
  • Unsweetened ketchup: If you don't have unsweetened ketchup or prefer a different option, use tomato paste or tomato sauce with a dash of vinegar and a pinch of sweetener.
  • Tamari: Use coconut aminos or soy sauce with reduced sodium.
  • Chili peppers: Use other varieties like Thai chilis, jalapeño or poblano peppers for a milder heat level.
  • Garlic: In the absence of fresh garlic, use garlic powder as a substitute.
  • Ginger: Powdered ginger will also work if you don't have fresh ginger on hand; just use it sparingly.
  • Cornstarch: For cornstarch, swap it with arrowroot powder or xanthan gum for thickening.

Additional ingredients

Unlock the full potential of this keto tofu stir fry by adding a few extra ingredients. Here are some fantastic keto-friendly options that will take this dish to new heights:

  • Fresh cilantro or Thai basil leaves: Sprinkle aromatic herbs like cilantro or Thai basil leaves on top to add freshness and vibrant flavor.
  • Sliced scallions or green onions: The mild oniony taste of these greens pairs beautifully with the savory notes of bourbon sauce.
  • Sesame oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the finished dish to infuse it with a nutty and aromatic essence.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch of these fiery flakes will add a delightful kick to each bite if you're a spice enthusiast.
  • Toasted sesame seeds: Add a sprinkle of these crunchy seeds for a pleasant texture and a nutty undertone.
  • Thinly sliced bell peppers or snap peas: Sauté these colorful veggies alongside the tofu for added crunch.
  • Steamed broccoli: Add some steamed broccoli florets alongside the tofu for a nutritious and vibrant side dish.

Cooking tools required

To make this Low Carb Tofu Recipe, you will need the following kitchen tools:

  • 10" or larger cast-iron skillet
  • Large bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula
  • Whisk or fork
  • Knife

Tool substitutes list

  • Cast-iron skillet: If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, use a non-stick skillet or a regular frying pan.

How to make Keto Bourbon Tofu: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Pan-frying
  • Simmering

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
  2. Cut tofu into cubes.
  3. Mince garlic and grate ginger.

Cooking instructions

  1. Combine the sweetener, ketchup, tamari, broth, bourbon, minced chili, garlic, ginger, and white pepper in a large bowl to make keto tofu marinade.
  2. Add the tofu pieces to the marinade, cover, and marinate for an hour.
  3. Remove the tofu from the marinade, set the marinade aside, and place the tofu in another bowl along with the cornstarch. Toss to coat.
  4. Heat the oil in a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet.
  5. Once hot, add the tofu to the skillet and brown for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  6. Add the reserved marinade to the skillet and bring it to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is thickened. Serve immediately.

Chef's pro tip

Want juicy and well-marinated tofu? Don't rush the marinate time! While it might be tempting to speed up the process, it's essential to let the tofu absorb all the marinade flavors. The recommended marination time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious dish.

What to serve with Keto Bourbon Tofu?

This versatile keto tofu recipe pairs well with various delicious and keto-friendly options. Here are some fantastic food pairings to consider:

  • Cauliflower rice: Serve the tofu over a bed of fluffy Cauliflower Rice for a satisfying and low-carb base.
  • Zucchini noodles: Toss the tofu with spiralized Zucchini Noodles With Shrimp. Just make the noodles (without the shrimp) for a plant-based alternative.
  • Stir-fried bok choy: Sauté bok choy with garlic and tamari creates a flavorful Asian-inspired side that perfectly complements the tofu.
  • Sesame green beans: Serve Asian Green Beans with a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

How to make it healthier?

  • Opt for low-sodium tamari or reduced-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the recipe.
  • Use homemade unsweetened ketchup to have full control on ingredients, additional sugars, or artificial additives.
  • Incorporate more veggies into the dish by adding sliced bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and fiber content.

Time-saving tips

  • Use tofu cubes: Instead of using tofu blocks, use cubes to use them for the recipe directly.
  • Purchase vegetable broth: If you want to save time, purchase already-made vegetable broth from a grocery store instead of making it yourself.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Marinate the tofu overnight: To save time on the cooking day, marinate the tofu the night before. Simply prepare the marinade, combine it with the tofu in a sealed container, and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Make vegetable broth ahead of time: To save time, make vegetable broth by simmering vegetable scraps with water and aromatics. Strain, cool, and store in airtight containers or ice cube trays for future use in low-carb tofu recipes.
Keto Bourbon Tofu in a cast iron skillet

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

Refrigerator: Place leftover tofu in an airtight container or a sealable freezer bag and refrigerate for 3-4 days, ensuring optimal freshness.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Place the desired amount of tofu in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes until warm.
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Transfer the tofu to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.
  • Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the desired amount of tofu. Stir occasionally for 5-7 minutes until warmed throughout.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Our Keto Bourbon Tofu offers a tasty low-carb option for vegan and vegetarian dishes. The combination of crispy tofu and flavorful bourbon sauce makes this recipe truly unique.

Check out our Keto Tofu Vendaloo as well!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, tofu is keto-friendly. There are only a few carbs in tofu, making it suitable for low-carb diets like keto.

The cooking time for tofu can vary depending on the recipe and desired texture. For this recipe, you typically cook the tofu on each side for 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown.

To determine if tofu is done cooking, look for visual cues. The tofu should have a crisp and golden exterior. Additionally, it should feel firm to the touch and have a slightly springy texture.

It depends on your dietary goals, nutritional needs, and specific health considerations. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the right portion sizes and balance for your specific circumstances.

While extra firm tofu is recommended for this recipe to achieve a crispy texture, you can use firm tofu as an alternative. Remember that the texture may be slightly softer, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with a non-alcoholic option like apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.

Cornstarch contains around 7g of net carbs per tablespoon, contributing less than 2g net carbs per serving. Its small amount is used to help the marinade stick to the tofu for added crispiness. Omitting it is an option, though your tofu might be less crispy but still tasty.

For optimal results, enjoy fresh tofu. If freezing, store tofu and sauce separately to preserve texture. Frozen tofu lasts 2-3 months, but the texture may alter upon thawing.

📖 Recipe

Keto Bourbon Tofu in a cast iron skillet

Keto Bourbon Tofu

This Keto Bourbon Tofu is a great low-carb plant-based Asian-inspired meal that's ready in a flash! Serve it up with riced cauliflower, steamed broccoli, or stir-fried veggies for a complete meal.
5 from 2 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 140kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound extra firm tofu pressed (we use Hodo, which comes already pressed)
  • 1 ½ ounces bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons granulated low-carb sweetener we used allulose
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened ketchup we used Primal Kitchen
  • 2 tablespoons tamari
  • ¼ cup vegetable broth
  • 1 small chili pepper finely minced we used a red serrano
  • 1 small clove of garlic finely minced or pressed
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Combine the sweetener, ketchup, tamari, broth, bourbon, minced chili, garlic, ginger, and white pepper in a large bowl to make keto tofu marinade.
  • Add the tofu pieces to the marinade, cover, and marinate for an hour.
  • Remove the tofu from the marinade, set the marinade aside, and place the tofu in another bowl along with the cornstarch. Toss to coat.
  • Heat the oil in a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet.
  • Once hot, add the tofu to the skillet and brown for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  • Add the reserved marinade to the skillet and bring it to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is thickened. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Bourbon Tofu
Amount Per Serving
Calories 140 Calories from Fat 54
% Daily Value*
Fat 6g9%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 3g
Sodium 697mg30%
Potassium 284mg8%
Carbohydrates 7g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 10g20%
Vitamin A 167IU3%
Vitamin C 3mg4%
Calcium 42mg4%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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