Spicy Tofu Tacos

Hey there Tex Mex Foodies!

Are you in the mood for something spicy and flavorful? Look no further, because today I'm sharing my recipe for Spicy Tofu Tacos. These vegan tacos are packed with protein, flavor, and a little bit of heat, making them the perfect meal for any taco lover.

To start, you'll need to gather your ingredients:

· 1 block extra firm tofu

· 2 tbsp oil (I like to use avocado or olive oil)

· 2 tbsp taco seasoning

· 1/4 cup water

· 6-8 small tortillas

· 1 cup shredded lettuce

· 1 cup diced tomatoes

· 1 cup diced onions

· 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color will do)

· 1 cup diced cucumber

· 1 cup diced avocado

· 1 cup chopped cilantro

· 1 cup diced jalapeño peppers (optional, for extra spice)

· 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for a non-vegan version)

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Start by pressing your tofu to remove any excess moisture. To do this, wrap the tofu in a few layers of paper towels or a clean dish towel, and place a heavy object on top (such as a pot or a canned good). Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, then discard the towels and chop the tofu into small cubes.

2. Heat a large pan over medium heat, and add the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to brown on the outside.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the taco seasoning and water until well combined. Pour the mixture over the tofu in the pan and stir until the tofu is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the seasoning has absorbed into the tofu.

4. As the tofu is cooking, prepare the rest of your taco toppings. Shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, cucumber, avocado, and cilantro (if using), and slice the jalapeño peppers (if using).

5. Once the tofu is cooked, it's time to assemble your tacos. Heat your tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, until they're warm and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

6. Divide the tofu evenly among the tortillas, and top with your desired toppings. I like to add a little bit of everything – lettuce, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, cucumber, avocado, cilantro, jalapeño peppers, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese (if using).

7. Fold the tortillas in half and enjoy!

Mistakes to avoid:

· Don't skip the step of pressing your tofu. This helps remove excess moisture, resulting in a firmer and more flavorful tofu.

· Don't overcook your tofu or it will become tough and chewy. Keep an eye on it and test it regularly to make sure it's cooked to your liking.

· Don't skimp on the taco seasoning! This is what gives the tofu its flavor, so don't be afraid to use a generous amount.

Variations:

· If you're not a fan of tofu, you can substitute it with tempeh, seitan, or any other protein of your choice.

· Not a fan of tortillas? No problem! You can use lettuce cups, rice bowls, or even serve the tofu and toppings over a bed of quinoa.

I hope you've enjoyed learning about my recipe for Spicy Tofu Tacos. These vegan tacos are filled with protein, flavor, and a little bit of heat, making them the perfect meal for any taco lover. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and customize to your liking. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can whip up a delicious and healthy meal that's sure to impress your friends and family.

So don't be afraid to give this recipe a try, and don't be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions. The best part about cooking is that there are no hard and fast rules – just have fun, be creative, and enjoy the process. And above all, remember to always taste as you go, and adjust the seasonings to your personal preference.

And if you're feeling a little overwhelmed or unsure of yourself in the kitchen, don't worry! We've all been there. Just take it one step at a time, and remember that cooking is all about trial and error. So go ahead, make mistakes, and learn from them. That's how we grow as cooks and become better at what we do.

Happy cooking, and remember – there's no such thing as a "perfect" meal. It's all about the journey and the love that goes into it.