Food is what makes you.
What we put into our body, or “our diet”, is one of the most important ways to take care of our body and soul.
At Mogami, we focus on the below diet principles rooted in the traditional Japanese diet.
This new blog series aims to help introduce a selection of traditional Japanese home-cooked recipes that can inspire your daily nourishment for your body.
Being among the top longevity nations, Japanese recipes will help provide you with a delicious and nutritious meal through an emphasis on fresh, balanced, seasonal and varied ingredients.
Traditional Japanese Ingredient: Tofu
Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a food product made from soybeans. It is a versatile and key ingredient in Japanese cuisine. It appears in various forms like silken, firm, and extra-firm tofu.
Commonly used in dishes such as miso soup, agedashi tofu, and tofu steak, it absorbs flavours well and provides a nutritious protein source. Tofu is also enjoyed in chilled appetizers, hot pots, salads, and even desserts.
Types of Tofu
Silken Tofu (Kinugoshi-dofu 絹ごし豆腐)
Soft and creamy, often used in soups, desserts, and dressings.
Regular Tofu (Momen-dofu 木綿豆腐)
Firmer than silken tofu, used in a variety of dishes.
Firm Tofu
Dense in texture, suitable for grilling, stir-frying, and baking.
Extra Firm Tofu
The firmest type, ideal for frying, grilling, and other methods where
tofu needs to maintain its shape.
Fusion Tofu Recipe: Tofu Lasagna
This recipe offers a healthy take on classic lasagna, providing a quick and easy microwave meal. By replacing traditional lasagna sheets with tofu, you can enjoy a low-carb, high-protein, and well-balanced dish. We've also replaced pizza cheese with healthier options like cottage cheese and mozzarella.
Ingredients (2 servings)
Silken tofu: 200g
Cut Shimeji mushrooms: 100g
Olive oil: 2 teaspoons
Black pepper: a pinch
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Tomato sauce: 1/4 cup
Mozzarella: 60g
Cottage cheese: 1/2 cup
Directions
Place tofu, shimeji mushrooms, and cottage cheese in a baking dish/foil tray.
Sprinkle with olive oil and black pepper.
Pour tomato sauce over the tofu and top with mozzarella.
Cover with cling film.
The moisture in the food will expand as steam during heating, so cover the dish loosely.
Microwave in a microwave oven (600W, 2 min).
Top with fresh basil.
Tips
The heating time is approximate; please adjust it according to your microwave's strength.
Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables or proteins to your liking.
How does tofu nourish you?
High in Protein & Healthy Fats
Tofu is a high-protein and low-carb food source containing healthy fats. It's rich in high-quality plant-based proteins for muscle repair and growth. Compared to meat, it is low in calories and saturated fats, promoting heart health and weight management.
Rich in amino acids & minerals
Tofu contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. It is rich in minerals and vitamins, including calcium, manganese, iron and vitamin A, all vital for maintaining your overall health and well-being.
Complementary Pairings
Pair tofu with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or whole grains to enhance its benefits. These combinations ensure a diverse intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a well-rounded, nutritious dining experience.
Choose non-GMO & Organic
While soy has gotten a mixed reputation for its health benefits, the research shows that it is important to understand that all soy is not the same. What is key in incorporating soy into your diet is to make sure it is minimally processed, such as tofu, non-GMO, and organic.
Why not try this simple Tofu recipe for a nutritionally rich diet to nourish your body and soul? 🌿🍅
いただきます itadakimasu
A mindful gratitude practice said before every meal
Stay tuned for more recipes and insights into the transformative power of whole foods through traditional Japanese cooking.
Let's make every meal a healthful delight! 🥢
Recipe inspiration: https://happylth.com/article/637
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