Description
A rich and creamy Tofu Tomato Pasta Sauce that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, tomatoes, and silken tofu blended to a smooth finish. This healthy, vegan-friendly sauce is perfect to pour over your favorite pasta, offering a comforting and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
Tomato Base
- 2 Tbsp tomato puree (tomato paste)
- 2 bay leaves
- Three 400 g (14 oz) tins chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Pinch chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Ingredients
- Approx 350 g (12 oz) firm silken tofu (such as Mori-Nu)
- 4 Tbsp nutritional yeast (more to taste)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and red bell pepper. Cook gently for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Puree: Stir in the crushed garlic, tomato puree, and bay leaves. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to blend the flavors.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the chopped tomatoes, sprinkle in the oregano, sugar, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of chili flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Tomato Tin Water: Rinse the empty tomato tins with a splash of water to capture any remaining tomato, then add this to the pan to retain full flavor and moisture.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend with Tofu and Nutritional Yeast: Remove the bay leaves. Transfer the hot sauce to a blender and add the silken tofu and nutritional yeast. Blend until very smooth and creamy. If your blender is small, blend in batches.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, or chili flakes as desired. Serve immediately over cooked pasta.
Notes
- This sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days and also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor and boosts B vitamins.
- Use firm silken tofu to achieve the best creamy texture without curdling.
- For a spicier version, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Perfect served with any pasta shape or as a base for a vegetarian lasagna.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
