Soulful & Satisfying: A 7-Day Plant-Based Thanksgiving Celebration - Day 3

Day 3: Plant-Based Proteins That Steal the Show

For many, the Thanksgiving centerpiece is synonymous with turkey. But in a plant-based kitchen, the spotlight shines on flavorful, protein-packed dishes that capture the essence of the holiday. With the right techniques and seasonings, plant-based proteins can be just as satisfying, hearty, and festive.

Today, we’re introducing a show-stopping main dish: Herb-Crusted Tofu Roast with a Maple-Mustard Glaze. This recipe transforms humble tofu into a savory, tender roast that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you're a seasoned tofu fan or a newcomer, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Rethinking the Main Dish

Tofu is an incredibly versatile ingredient that absorbs flavors beautifully. Its neutral taste allows it to be seasoned and cooked to fit any occasion. For Thanksgiving, we’ve infused tofu with savory herbs, coated it in a golden crust, and finished it with a sweet and tangy glaze.

This dish not only delivers on taste but also serves as a rich source of plant-based protein, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast.

Recipe: Herb-Crusted Tofu Roast with Maple-Mustard Glaze

Ingredients for the Tofu Roast:

- 2 blocks (14 oz each) extra-firm tofu

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp onion powder

- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

- 1 tsp dried thyme

- 1 tsp dried rosemary

Ingredients for the Herb Crust:

- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

- 1 tsp dried parsley

- 1 tsp dried sage

- 1/4 tsp black pepper

Ingredients for the Maple-Mustard Glaze:

- 3 tbsp maple syrup

- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Press the Tofu:

- Remove excess water from the tofu by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object (like a skillet) on top. Let it press for 20-30 minutes.

2. Marinate the Tofu:

- Slice each tofu block in half lengthwise to create four thick slabs.

- In a shallow dish, mix olive oil, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Coat the tofu slabs in the marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes, flipping occasionally for even absorption.

3. Prepare the Herb Crust:

- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, parsley, sage, and black pepper.

4. Coat the Tofu:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Press each marinated tofu slab into the herb crust mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Place the coated tofu slabs on the baking sheet.

5. Make the Glaze:

- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.

6. Bake the Tofu Roast:

- Bake the tofu for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush generously with the maple-mustard glaze. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden and slightly caramelized.

7. Serve Warm:

- Let the tofu rest for 5 minutes before serving. Arrange the slabs on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Why This Recipe Works

The marinade infuses the tofu with deep, savory flavors, while the herb crust adds a satisfying crunch. The maple-mustard glaze ties everything together with its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. This dish is as festive as it is delicious.

A Centerpiece to Be Thankful For

This Herb-Crusted Tofu Roast proves that plant-based main dishes can rival any turkey. Pair it with your favorite sides—like cornbread dressing, collard greens, or sweet potatoes—and create a feast that’s as nourishing as it is celebratory.

Tomorrow, we’ll turn our attention to vegetable sides that will bring vibrant color and fresh flavors to your Thanksgiving table. Stay tuned for more recipes that honor the soul of the holiday!