Addictively Good Budget-Friendly Vietnamese Caramelized Tofu & Kale Dutch Oven One-Pot Meal Prep
This savory-sweet, umami-rich one-pot meal features crispy tofu cubes glazed in a homemade Vietnamese-style caramel sauce and tender kale, all cooked together in a Dutch oven for maximum flavor and easy cleanup. It's a perfect, budget-friendly vegetarian meal prep solution that's both satisfying and simple to make.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp neutral oil like avocado or canola oil, divided
- 1 tbsp cornstarch for coating tofu
- 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
- 1 bunch kale stems removed, leaves chopped (about 6 cups packed)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tbsp brown sugar packed
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil for finishing
- 1 cup vegetable broth low-sodium
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Make-Ahead Tip: You can press and cube the tofu up to 2 days in advance. Cook the entire dish and portion it out for easy grab-and-go lunches. Variation: For extra protein, add a can of rinsed and drained chickpeas along with the tofu. Serve over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or rice noodles for a complete meal.