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Golden tofu cubes glazed with date syrup and served with roasted pineapple and blistered cherry tomatoes by The Promised Cook

Golden Date Syrup & Pineapple Tofu "Candy"

A high-protein, plant-based Mediterranean masterpiece. Roasted tofu cubes meet blistered cherry tomatoes and sweet pineapple in a glossy, sugar-free glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Modern Israeli
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block 14-16 oz Extra Firm Tofu, pressed, dried, and cut into 1-inch cubes.
The Garden Mix
  • 1 small yellow onion or half a large one, coarsely diced.
  • 1 large red bell pepper cut into bite-sized chunks.
  • 10-12 whole cherry tomatoes the "candy" element.
  • 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced.
  • The Fruit & Glaze
  • 4-5 thick pineapple chunks.
  • 3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil divided.
  • 3 tbsp Natural Date Syrup.
  • Juice of ½ a large lemon.
  • ¼ tsp Turmeric powder.
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Optional: A pinch of red chili flakes for a subtle kick.
  • To Serve
  • A sprinkle of black cumin Nigella seeds or toasted sesame seeds.

Method
 

  1. Instructions
  2. Prepare the Tofu (The Secret to Texture)
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden and the texture is firm and bouncy.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables
  5. In a large, wide skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until lightly golden. Add the whole cherry tomatoes and sliced garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the tomato skins begin to blister and wrinkle slightly.
  6. Combine and Glaze
  7. Add the roasted tofu cubes and the pineapple chunks to the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk together the date syrup, lemon juice, turmeric, salt, and pepper, then pour over the ingredients.
  8. The Finishing Touch (Glazing)
  9. Cook over high heat, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Stir gently so the tofu absorbs the glaze. The cherry tomatoes will release their sweet juices, merging with the date syrup to create a thick, glossy, and vibrant sauce.
  10. Serve
  11. Remove from heat once everything is beautifully coated and caramelized. Garnish with black cumin or sesame seeds for a professional, high-contrast look.