Caramelized Tofu & Gala Apple Salad Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, press the extra-firm tofu: place it on a kitchen towel for 15 minutes, turning once, to absorb as much moisture as possible. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

Lightly brush the tofu cubes with vegetable oil (olive oil works fine, but peanut oil would also be a good choice here for its neutral flavor and high smoke point). Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.

While the tofu bakes, melt the 1 tablespoon butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the 2 cloves minced garlic and cook gently until the butter is just shimmering and the garlic is fragrant, but not browned.

Increase the heat to medium, then add the sliced Gala apple, the baked tofu cubes, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the 1/4 cup water and continue to cook, stirring every minute for another 6 to 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated and the pan is almost dry. Turn off the heat and stir in the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until it's fully incorporated and coats the tofu and apples.