Traditional Chipotle Tofu Chilaquiles
Portions: 2-3
Total time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Description
Chipotle Tofu Chilaquiles are a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with a vegan twist, making it a versatile dish suitable for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
This recipe transforms the classic chilaquiles by substituting meat with seasoned tofu and incorporating a homemade 5-ingredient adobo sauce, which adds a smoky, spicy depth to the dish. The base of this dish is a hearty sauce made from tomato, chipotle peppers in adobo, and vegetable stock, which is then combined with crispy baked tortilla chips and topped with a savory tofu scramble.
The preparation involves baking your own tortilla chips for a healthier alternative to store-bought ones, although you can use regular chips if you're short on time. The dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying, offering a good amount of protein from the tofu, making it a perfect meal for those looking for plant-based options without sacrificing taste or texture.
This dish is known for its:
- Savory and spicy flavors
- Saucy and slightly crispy texture
- Rich and comforting mouthfeel
- Healthy and satisfying nature
- Fast preparation time
Difficulty: Easy, with straightforward steps that require basic cooking skills.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cooking method: Baking, sautéing, and simmering
Resting time: None
Total time: 30 minutes
Portions: 2-3 servings
Estimated cost: Approximately $10-$15, depending on the availability of ingredients.
Calories: Roughly 386 kcal per serving, excluding additional toppings.
Best time to eat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Best Season for eating: Suitable for all seasons, but particularly comforting in cooler months.
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired, vegan
Course: Breakfast, brunch, or light dinner
Ingredients
For the Chilaquiles:
- 5 small yellow corn tortillas or 2 large handfuls of tortilla chips
- 1/2 large white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (canned) + 1 Tbsp sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 cup veggie stock
For the Tofu:
- 8 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed in a clean towel for 15 minutes
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Toppings (optional):
- Vegan Mexican Cheese
- Diced onion and/or fresh cilantro
- Salsa or hot sauce
- Lime juice
Instructions
- Press and Drain Tofu: Start by pressing and draining your tofu in a clean kitchen towel with a heavy pot on top. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (176 C).
- Bake Tortillas: If baking your own tortilla chips, lightly brush or spray both sides of the tortillas with olive or avocado oil, dust with sea salt, stack, cut into triangles, and arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and slightly golden brown. Set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 Tbsp olive or avocado oil and the diced onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until soft and slightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes. Add tomato sauce, diced chipotle, adobo sauce, and veggie stock. Heat until bubbly, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Blend Sauce: Transfer the sauce to a blender. Blend until smooth or pulse for a chunkier texture. Set aside.
- Cook Tofu: Use a fork to crumble the tofu. Place the skillet back over medium heat (no need to rinse or wipe clean). Add a bit of oil, then add the tofu. Let it lightly brown for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add seasonings (cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt) and stir. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from pan and set aside.
- Assemble Chilaquiles: Add the tortilla chips to the pan and pour over the sauce, stirring quickly to coat. Top with the tofu scramble, fresh onion, and cilantro. Serve immediately with additional toppings like hot sauce, lime juice, salsa, or vegan cheese.
✅ Quick Tips:
Read the recipe in its entirety before starting to ensure you understand the steps and have all ingredients ready.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chipotle pepper and adobo sauce.
For a different texture, you can pulse the sauce in the blender for a chunkier consistency.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, as the chips will soften over time.
Chipotle Tofu Chilaquiles are a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with a vegan twist, making it a versatile dish suitable for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
This recipe transforms the classic chilaquiles by substituting meat with seasoned tofu and incorporating a homemade 5-ingredient adobo sauce, which adds a smoky, spicy depth to the dish. The base of this dish is a hearty sauce made from tomato, chipotle peppers in adobo, and vegetable stock, which is then combined with crispy baked tortilla chips and topped with a savory tofu scramble.
The preparation involves baking your own tortilla chips for a healthier alternative to store-bought ones, although you can use regular chips if you're short on time. The dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying, offering a good amount of protein from the tofu, making it a perfect meal for those looking for plant-based options without sacrificing taste or texture.
A qualified Holistic Nutritionist with a passion for yoga, a love for travel, and the founder of Cook Recipe.
On most days, you'll likely find me experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen or working out at the gym. My greatest passion in life is assisting others in achieving healthier and happier lifestyles. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to connect with and inspire individuals from all corners of the globe.
