Tofu Rancheros

A veganized version of huevos (eggs) rancheros, this dish of tofu prepared with Southwestern flavors, and nestled on corn tortillas, makes a nice brunch or light dinner dish. Serve with a simple potato dish and salad for a complete meal. Adapted from Vegan Express.

Serves: 4

• One 16-ounce tub firm tofu
• 3 tablespoons cornmeal
• 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt
• 1 medium onion, quartered and thinly sliced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, cut into short, narrow strips
• 1 small fresh chili pepper, seeds removed, minced, optional
• One 16-ounce jar prepared salsa, any favorite variety
• 1 cup salt-free crushed tomatoes
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 1/2 cups grated vegan cheddar or nacho cheese, optional
• 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and sliced

Cut the tofu into 6 slabs crosswise. Blot well on paper towels or clean tea towels, then cut into small dice.

Combine the tofu with the cornmeal in a plastic food storage bag. Shake gently until the tofu is evenly coated.

Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of the oil in a wide skillet. Add the tofu and sauté over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until golden on most sides, about 8 to 10 minutes. Sprinkle lightly with salt. Remove from the skillet to a container and cover.

Heat the remaining oil in the skillet. Add the onion and sauté over medium heat until translucent. Add the bell pepper and continue to sauté until both are golden.

Stir the salsa and tomatoes into the skillet and cook just until heated, just a minute or two longer.

To assemble, place 2 tortillas on each serving plate. Divide the salsa and onion mixture over their surfaces, then sprinkle evenly with the tofu dice. Sprinkle cheese over the tops. Garnish with avocado slices and serve at once.

• Explore more of VegKitchen’s easy, festive vegan brunch recipes and menus.
• Here are more easy tofu recipes.
• Find lots more tortilla recipes in A Southwestern Supper. 
• Find more of VegKitchen’s Vegan Dinner Recipes and more Tofu, Tempeh and Vegan Sausage Main Dishes.