Ingredients
Table of Contents
For the Salad:
- 2 ears of corn or 1 1/2 cups of frozen corn, thawed
- 1 block (7-8 ounces) of smoked tofu, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons of sesame seeds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons of lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
For the Rice:
- 1 cup of jasmine rice
- 2 cups of water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
TOFU Preparing the Rice
- Cook the Rice: . Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
TOFU Preparing the Salad
- Cook the Corn: If using fresh corn, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ears of corn and cook for about 5 minutes. Remove the corn from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, simply thaw it and set aside.
- Prepare the Tofu: Pat the smoked tofu dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into small cubes. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can pan-fry the tofu in a little oil over medium heat until golden brown on all sides.
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice the red bell pepper and cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop the fresh cilantro and mint.
TOFU Making the Dressing
- Combine the Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, maple syrup or agave nectar, sesame oil, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more lime juice for acidity or sriracha for heat.
Assembling the Salad
- Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels, black beans, cubed tofu, diced bell pepper, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, fold in the chopped cilantro and mint. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Serving
- Serve the Salad: Divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving plates or bowls. Top each portion of rice with a generous helping of the Thai-style corn, bean, and smoked tofu salad. For an added touch, garnish with extra fresh herbs or a wedge of lime on the side.
TOFU Tips and Variations
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to the salad, such as shredded carrots, sliced radishes, or snap peas, for additional color and texture.
- Grilled Tofu: For a smoky flavor, grill the tofu instead of pan-frying it. This adds a nice char and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped peanuts or cashews for a nutty crunch that complements the flavors of the salad.
Nutritional Benefits
TOFU This Thai-style corn, bean, and smoked salad with rice is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of black beans and provides a good source of plant-based protein. Fresh vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the herbs and lime juice offer a refreshing burst of flavor without adding extra calories. The jasmine rice serves as a comforting base, making this dish a well-balanced meal.
Conclusion
TOFU Meera Sodha’s vegan Thai-style corn, bean, and smoked salad with rice is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will please both vegans and non-vegans alike. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant dish to bring to a potluck. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a wonderful addition to any culinary repertoire. Enjoy the fresh, bold flavors and the satisfying combination of ingredients that make this salad a standout meal.
