The crisp autumn air was filled with the delightful scent of spices as I shuffled through my pantry, hunting for inspiration. When I stumbled upon a block of super firm tofu tucked away in the back, I knew I could turn it into something special. Enter my Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing and Vegan Gravy—a dish that brings the essence of comfort food right to your holiday table. This recipe combines a hearty, aromatic stuffing that’s bursting with flavors from pecans and fresh herbs, all wrapped in a crispy rice paper exterior. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply looking for an impressive plant-based meal, this centerpiece is sure to impress friends and family alike. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on what really matters—creating memories around the dinner table. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing
Simplicity: This recipe is easy to master, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.
Comfort Food: Experience the warmth and heartiness of traditional holiday fare without compromising on flavors.
Impressive Presentation: Delight your guests with a stunning dish that looks as amazing as it tastes, elevating your holiday table.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of pecans, leeks, and fresh herbs will have everyone asking for seconds!
Versatile: Customize the stuffing with your favorite nuts or herbs, catering to your dietary preferences.
Time-Saving: Prepare ahead by marinating tofu and making stuffing the night before, making your holiday stress-free!
Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing Ingredients
For the Tofu
- Super Firm Tofu – Provides the foundation for this delicious dish; be sure to press it if not super firm.
- Boiling Water – Used to dissolve Better Than Bouillon, ensuring the tofu absorbs flavor while marinating.
- Better Than Bouillon (Vegetable) – Deepens the flavor profile of the marinade; vegetable broth can substitute in a pinch.
- Fresh Rosemary – Bursts with earthy aromas in the marinade; dried rosemary can work if fresh isn’t available.
- Fresh Thyme – Adds an aromatic herby note; any dried thyme can be a suitable substitute.
- Fresh Sage – Imparts savory depth; feel free to swap with dried if fresh is unavailable.
- Rice Paper Roll Wrappers – Creates a unique, crispy “skin”; no substitute recommended to achieve the right texture.
- Olive Oil – Helps crisp the rice paper while adding a touch of richness to the flavor.
- Salt – Enhances every bite; adjust to your taste preference.
- Black Pepper – Offers a mild kick; freshly ground black pepper will elevate the flavor.
- Paprika – Adds color and a light smokiness; use to taste or omit for a milder version.
For the Stuffing
- Bread Cubes – Forms the delicious stuffing base; ensure they are vegan-friendly, or use homemade stale bread.
- Vegan Butter – Contributes richness in both the stuffing and gravy; olive oil can be a good substitute here.
- Vegetable Broth – Keeps the stuffing moist and serves as a base for the gravy; choose homemade or store-bought.
- Celery – Adds crunch and flavor to the stuffing; feel free to substitute with any preferred vegetables.
- Sweet Onion – Provides a natural sweetness; yellow onion can easily be swapped for similar results.
- Leek – Elevates the stuffing with a mild onion flavor; can substitute scallions if leeks aren’t on hand.
- Pecans, Roughly Chopped – Introduces a crunchy, nutty essence; walnuts or other nuts can switch it up.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the gravy’s flavor; fresh garlic makes a wonderful, bold substitute.
- Fresh Thyme (for gravy) – Rounds out the gravy flavor; dried thyme can fill in if fresh isn’t available.
With this collection of ingredients for your Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing and Vegan Gravy, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful centerpiece fit for any festive occasion!
How to Make Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing
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Prepare Tofu: Start by poking holes in the super firm tofu, allowing it to soak up flavor. Marinate it in a mixture of boiling water, Better Than Bouillon, and fresh herbs for at least 30 minutes.
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Make Stuffing: Sauté chopped celery, sweet onion, and leek in vegan butter until fragrant and softened. Add vegetable broth, bring it to a boil, then stir in the bread cubes and chopped pecans, mixing well.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the tofu and stuffing.
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Wrap Tofu: Dip rice paper wrappers in water until soft, then carefully wrap them around the marinated tofu. Brush the outside with a mixture of olive oil and seasonings for extra crispiness.
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Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the pecan leek stuffing evenly in the bottom of a casserole dish. Place the wrapped tofu on top and bake for 15 minutes until warmed through.
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Finish Baking: After 15 minutes, brush remaining olive oil on the tofu. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, until the rice paper is golden brown and crispy.
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Make Gravy: In the pan used for the stuffing, melt vegan butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add the reserved vegetable broth and cook until thickened, adding fresh thyme for flavor.
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Serve: Allow the tofu to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the slices of tofu atop the stuffing with the rich vegan gravy drizzled over.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing and Vegan Gravy?
Enhance your holiday table with delightful pairings that elevate the comforting flavors of this impressive dish.
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Steamed Green Beans: Fresh, crisp green beans add a vibrant color and a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts with the softness of the tofu and stuffing.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts create a lovely balance to the savory richness of the gravy.
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Herb Quinoa Salad: A light herb quinoa salad with lemon and cucumber provides a refreshing contrast and a healthy, protein-packed side.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of freshly made cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a festive touch that complements every bite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for an indulgent pairing, soaking up the vegan gravy while providing a smooth and comforting texture.
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Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy, making them a must-have addition to your holiday spread.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider can enhance the seasonal flavors, offering a cozy drink option that complements your meal beautifully.
Let these delightful sides combine to create a full, vibrant meal that everyone at your table will cherish!
Expert Tips for Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing
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Marination Magic: For the most flavorful tofu, extend marination time to 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the tofu.
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Rice Paper Precision: Ensure the rice paper is well-soaked but not overly soggy. This balance is key to achieving a crispy finish on your baked tofu.
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Crisp Coat: Brush the wrapped tofu with a mixture of olive oil and spices before baking. This step enhances the crunchy texture beautifully.
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Stuffing Swap: Don’t hesitate to customize your pecan leek stuffing! You can replace pecans with walnuts or mix in different herbs to match your taste.
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Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently to keep the texture intact.
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Slicing Tip: Let the baked tofu cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure cleaner cuts—this keeps the stuffing all intact while serving.
Enjoy making this Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing and Vegan Gravy your own!
Storage Tips for Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze any unused portions for up to 2 months; wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for best results.
Reheating: Thaw frozen baked tofu overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore crispiness.
Prepare Ahead: To save time, the stuffing and marinated tofu can be made a day in advance, giving you a head start for your Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing and Vegan Gravy are perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meal prep! You can marinate the tofu for up to 24 hours in advance to maximize flavor absorption and save time. Additionally, the stuffing can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply sauté the vegetables, mix in the breadcrumbs and pecans, and refrigerate until ready to assemble. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, just wrap the marinated tofu in rice paper, layer it on the stuffing, and bake according to the recipe. You’ll achieve delightful, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe to match your cravings and pantry staples!
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Nut-Free: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, allergy-friendly option.
These seeds keep that delightful texture while pleasing those with nut allergies. -
Herb Swap: Customize the stuffing by substituting fresh herbs like basil or dill for a unique twist.
Each herb brings its own character, making the dish feel fresh and exciting each time. -
Cheesy Flavor: Add nutritional yeast to the stuffing for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
This simple addition amps up the richness while keeping the dish vegan-friendly. -
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Spice lovers will enjoy a little warmth that elevates the flavor profile to new heights! -
Grain Boost: Incorporate cooked quinoa or farro into the stuffing for added texture and nutrients.
Whole grains lend an earthy quality and increase the dish’s heartiness—perfect for a filling meal. -
Savory Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the stuffing for an earthy depth and umami flavor.
Their moisture and richness make every bite feel indulgent and comforting. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread in the stuffing to keep this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
This easy swap ensures everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors without worry. -
Veggie Mix: Toss in additional roasted or sautéed vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the stuffing.
It’s a wonderful way to pack in extra nutrients while enhancing the stuffing’s flavors and textures.
Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing Recipe FAQs
What type of tofu should I use for the recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using super firm tofu for this recipe to achieve the best texture. If you can only find extra firm tofu, be sure to press it for at least 30 minutes before marinating to remove excess moisture.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before storing to retain its flavor. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy your delicious meal again!
Can I freeze the Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing?
Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the rice paper wrapping isn’t crispy after baking?
If the rice paper isn’t crispy, try brushing more olive oil on it before the final baking. Make sure it’s well-soaked before wrapping the tofu to prevent sogginess. If you prefer, you can also coat the tofu lightly with cornstarch for an extra crunch without the wrapping.
Is this dish suitable for those with nut allergies?
For individuals with nut allergies, you can substitute the pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Just make sure the bread cubes are also nut-free to keep the entire dish safe for anyone with allergies.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and marinate the tofu a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the dish when you’re ready to bake! This makes your holiday meal much simpler and stress-free.
Baked Tofu with Pecan Leek Stuffing and Vegan Gravy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Tofu: Start by poking holes in the super firm tofu, allowing it to soak up flavor. Marinate it in a mixture of boiling water, Better Than Bouillon, and fresh herbs for at least 30 minutes.
- Make Stuffing: Sauté chopped celery, sweet onion, and leek in vegan butter until fragrant and softened. Add vegetable broth, bring it to a boil, then stir in the bread cubes and chopped pecans, mixing well.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the tofu and stuffing.
- Wrap Tofu: Dip rice paper wrappers in water until soft, then carefully wrap them around the marinated tofu. Brush the outside with a mixture of olive oil and seasonings for extra crispiness.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the pecan leek stuffing evenly in the bottom of a casserole dish. Place the wrapped tofu on top and bake for 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Finish Baking: After 15 minutes, brush remaining olive oil on the tofu. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, until the rice paper is golden brown and crispy.
- Make Gravy: In the pan used for the stuffing, melt vegan butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add the reserved vegetable broth and cook until thickened, adding fresh thyme for flavor.
- Serve: Allow the tofu to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the slices of tofu atop the stuffing with the rich vegan gravy drizzled over.