By Matthew G. Kadey, MS, RD


Getting burned out on the same foods day in and day out? Try this alternative protein source to spice up your selections.


Thanks to it's meaty texture and deep flavor, smoked tofu is a welcome new twist on this vegetarian staple. With about 25 grams of protein in a three-ounce serving, smoked tofu is no lightweight in the protein department: Researchers at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, found that soy protein was just as effective as casein protein in preventing muscle breakdown and stimulating muscle-protein synthesis.
Sneak it in: Smoked tofu can be an occasional replacement for meats like chicken and beef in dishes such as chili, stir-frys, and soups. Also try grating it on a box grater and adding to tacos, salads, and sandwiches.
Find it: Look for smoked tofu next to other types of tofu in the produce section of your supermarket or natural food store.





Calories 358 Protein 16g Fat 17g Carbs 39g

Servings: 4

Ingredients:
1 block (about 200g) firm smoked tofu


1 cup cooked or canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed


1 cup pineapple, cubed


1/2 cup red onion, finely diced


1 small red bell pepper, chopped


1/3 cup cilantro, chopped


1 tsp lime zest


1 large ripe avocado


1/3 cup reduced-fat sour cream


1 clove garlic, minced


Juice of 1/2 lime


1/4 tsp cayenne powder


8 corn or whole wheat tortillas






Instructions:

  1. Chop tofu into squares and place the cubes in a large bowl.
  2. Add beans, pineapple, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and lime zest to bowl and stir.
  3. Place avocado flesh, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, and cayenne powder in a food processor or blender and mix until smooth.
  4. To serve, spread avocado cream on tortillas and top with tofu mixture.