Pepes Tahu with a Caribbean Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Indonesian Pepes Tahu is transformed into a Caribbean delight by incorporating Antiguan flavors. The original dish typically uses Indonesian spices such as turmeric, galangal, and lime leaves, while the adapted version features Caribbean spices like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. Additionally, the use of banana leaves in the original dish is retained to add an authentic touch to the Caribbean-inspired Pepes Tahu. We alse have the original recipe for Pepes tahu, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) firm tofu, cut into rectangular pieces 500g (1.1 lb) firm tofu, cut into rectangular pieces
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped 2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 banana leaves, cut into 8x8 inch squares 4 banana leaves, cut into 8x8 inch squares
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the chopped scotch bonnet peppers, minced garlic, thyme leaves, allspice, black pepper, salt, and vegetable oil.
2. 2.
   Add the tofu pieces to the bowl and gently toss until they are well coated with the spice mixture. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Take a piece of banana leaf and place a marinated tofu piece in the center. Fold the banana leaf over the tofu to create a parcel, securing the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Repeat this process for the remaining tofu pieces.
5. 5.
   Place the tofu parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tofu is cooked through and slightly golden.
6. 6.
   Remove the toothpicks or twine from the parcels and serve the Caribbean Spiced Tofu Parcels with lime wedges for squeezing over the tofu.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Banana leaves — If you can't find fresh banana leaves, you can use parchment paper as a substitute. However, the unique flavor and aroma of the banana leaves will be missing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder version, reduce the amount of scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds before chopping.
• Serve the Caribbean Spiced Tofu Parcels with a side of coconut rice to complement the flavors.
• Experiment with different tofu textures, such as silken tofu, for a softer and creamier result.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the tofu parcels before serving to enhance the citrusy flavors.
• If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the tofu parcels on a barbecue instead of baking them.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Spiced Tofu Parcels as a main course accompanied by coconut rice and a refreshing tropical salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tofu parcels on a platter, allowing the vibrant green banana leaves to peek through. Sprinkle some additional thyme leaves over the top for a touch of elegance. Serve with lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the tofu parcels.