Vegan Salmon Recipe
This Vegan Salmon recipe mimics the taste and texture of traditional salmon using extra-firm tofu marinated with nori sheets for an ocean-like flavor. The tofu is marinated in a tangy soy sauce and lemon juice blend with aromatic spices, then pan-fried to a golden brown perfection. It’s perfect as a healthy, plant-based alternative served with quinoa, salads, or sushi rolls.
- Author: Natalie
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-Based
- Diet: Vegan
Main Ingredients
- 14 ounces Extra-Firm Tofu (pressed to remove moisture)
- 2 sheets Nori (for ocean-like flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (or lime juice for variation)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or avocado/sesame oil preferred)
- Various Spices/Herbs (such as dill, garlic powder, or your favorites)
- Prepare the Tofu: Slice the extra-firm tofu into thick filets about half an inch each. Press the tofu gently using a clean kitchen towel or tofu press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture during cooking.
- Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, and your choice of spices and herbs. This marinade will infuse the tofu with a vibrant blend of tangy, salty, and herbal flavors.
- Marinate the Tofu: Submerge the pressed tofu filets in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors deeply.
- Heat the Oil: Warm a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding the tofu to ensure proper frying.
- Pan-Fry the Tofu: Carefully place the marinated tofu filets into the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for approximately 10 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until each side becomes a crispy golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the vegan salmon from the skillet and allow it to rest for a minute. Serve warm with your choice of quinoa, fresh salads, or incorporate it into sushi rolls for a delicious plant-based meal.
Notes
- Pressing tofu effectively removes moisture, which helps in achieving a firmer texture and better absorption of marinade.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Nori sheets are essential to impart the ocean-like flavor essential for mimicking salmon.
- Adjust spices to your taste; dill and garlic powder work exceptionally well for a seafood-like flavor.
- Cook tofu on medium heat to ensure it crisps nicely without burning.
- This vegan salmon pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like quinoa or salads to balance the flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently in a skillet.
Keywords: Vegan salmon, plant-based seafood, tofu salmon, vegan main dish, nori tofu recipe, healthy vegan meal