Akaari Grilled Tofu

Background

Akaari Grilled Tofu is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the rich culinary traditions of East Asia and the smoky flavors of Western grilling techniques. The word "Akaari" is inspired by the Japanese term for light, emphasizing the dish's light yet flavorful nature. Grilled tofu dishes have a long history in Asian cuisine, where tofu has been a staple for centuries. In this modern take, we infuse a blend of bold spices to create a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. It's perfect for a summer barbecue or a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• Tofu - One firm block
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, freshly grated
• Honey - 1 tablespoon
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Red Pepper Flakes - 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Scallions - 2, chopped
• Cilantro - A handful, chopped

Preparation

This dish requires a careful balancing of flavors to bring out the best in the tofu. To accomplish this, marination is key:

1. Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap the block in a clean cloth and place it between two plates. Top with a heavy object and let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. While the tofu is being pressed, prepare the marinade. In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
3. Once pressed, slice the tofu into thick slabs and submerge them in the marinade. Ensure each slice is coated evenly and let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption.

Cooking Time

Cooking the tofu to perfection involves a precise grilling process. You can monitor your cooking progress using a cooking timer to ensure precision:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to turn ashy gray before beginning.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the tofu from sticking.
3. Place marinated tofu on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the exterior crisps up. Keep an eye on the cooking timer to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Once the tofu is grilled to perfection, it's time to enjoy your delightful creation:

• Transfer the grilled tofu to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro.
• Serve with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad to complement the bold flavors.
• For an exotic touch, accompany with a tangy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, lemon juice, and a dash of honey.
• Enjoy this dish hot off the grill for the best taste and texture.