This month’s Made with Mettā offering brings the vibrant, nourishing flavors of Indonesia to your kitchen with a vegan twist on gado gado—a beloved mixed vegetable salad served with a rich, tangy peanut sauce. Grounded in the values of care, simplicity, and connection, this dish invites you to practice mettā through mindful cooking and joyful sharing. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or offering it to a friend, may this recipe nourish both body and heart.
Gado Gado Tofu
Servings: 6
Vegan optional | Serve with basmati or brown rice
Marinated Tofu
Ingredients:
- 2¼ lbs firm tofu, cubed
Marinade:
- 2 tbsp tamari
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp honey (or agave for vegan option)
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine all marinade ingredients and bring to a brief boil. Remove from heat.
- Place tofu cubes in a large bowl and toss with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Drain tofu and arrange on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake at 375°F for 30–45 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden.
- Keep warm until serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro just before serving.
Gado Gado Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 oz onion, diced
- 2 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 6 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tbsp tamari
- 1 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (bottled is fine)
- ⅛ tsp white pepper
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Sauté onions in a small amount of olive oil over medium heat until soft.
- Add ginger and garlic, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in peanut butter, tamari, molasses, lemon juice, and white pepper.
- Add coconut milk and chili flakes. Stir until smooth and heated through.
- Blend if desired for a smoother texture. Thin with water as needed. Keep warm until serving.
Side Vegetables
Ingredients:
- ⅔ lb carrots
- ⅔ lb cauliflower
- ⅔ lb broccoli
Instructions:
- Steam or roast vegetables until tender.
- Serve warm alongside tofu and rice.
To Serve
- Serve baked tofu garnished with cilantro in a large dish.
- Offer sauce on the side in small bowls or ladles.
- Pair with steamed basmati or brown rice and side vegetables.
Nutrition (per serving):
219 Calories | 12g Fat | 16g Protein | 17g Carbohydrate | 6g Fiber | 0mg Cholesterol | 52mg Sodium
