Taoist Pastitsada

Ingredients

In this Taoist adaptation of Pastitsada, we make a few modifications to align with the principles of the Taoist diet. We replace the traditional meat with tofu or tempeh, providing a plant-based protein source. The sauce is enriched with a variety of Taoist-friendly herbs and spices, such as ginger, garlic, and star anise, to enhance the flavors and promote balance. Additionally, we serve the dish over whole grain noodles or steamed vegetables instead of the traditional pasta, offering a healthier and more wholesome option. We alse have the original recipe for Pastitsada, so you can check it out.

• 400g (14 oz) tofu or tempeh, cubed 400g (14 oz) tofu or tempeh, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 star anise 1 star anise
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 2 cups (470ml) tomato passata 2 cups (470ml) tomato passata
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Whole grain noodles or steamed vegetables, for serving Whole grain noodles or steamed vegetables, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 8g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the tofu or tempeh cubes and cook until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
3. 3.
   Stir in the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and star anise, and cook for a minute to release their flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth, tomato passata, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Return the tofu or tempeh to the pan and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Serve the Taoist Pastitsada over whole grain noodles or steamed vegetables, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tofu or tempeh — Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cubing it. If using tempeh, steam it for 10 minutes before cubing to enhance its texture and remove any bitterness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Experiment with different Taoist-friendly herbs and spices, such as Chinese five-spice powder or dried shiitake mushrooms, to add depth of flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving advice

Serve Taoist Pastitsada as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Present the Taoist Pastitsada in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through. Arrange the whole grain noodles or steamed vegetables neatly alongside the tofu or tempeh, and drizzle the sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh herbs for an appealing finishing touch.