Jerk Tofu Grain Bowls

Step 1

Fill a large skillet with enough oil to just cover the bottom of the pan with oil. Heat over medium-high until oil shimmers. Working carefully, add plantain slices to pan in a single layer.

Step 2

Fry, turning half way through halfway through, for 6 to 8 minutes. When the plantains are a deep golden brown and can be easily pierced with a fork, remove to a paper towel lined plate and season with salt.

Step 3

In a large bowl combine cabbage, carrots and salt and set aside for 15 minutes. Squeeze the cabbage mixture over sink to remove the moisture.

Step 4

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey and mustard until totally combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss cabbage with dressing to coat and chill.

Step 5

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add kidney beans, coconut milk and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons water. Add scallions, allspice, garlic, scotch bonnet, thyme, a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and let cook uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 6

In a fine mesh strainer, rinse basmati under cold water until the water runs clear. Remove the allspice, scallions and garlic. If a lot of liquid has evaporated, refill to the original level with water, then bring to a boil. Add rice, reduce to a simmer and cook covered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

Step 7

In a food processor or blender, add onion, scallion, ginger, scotch bonnet, thyme, 2 teaspoons allspice, soy sauce and vinegar. Blend until a smooth paste has formed. Season with salt and pepper and set aside in a large bowl.

Step 8

Slice tofu into ¼ slices and sprinkle both sides with 1 teaspoon allspice, cinnamon, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Add tofu to the jerk marinade and carefully toss to coat, making sure to not break the slices. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for 2 hours and up to overnight.

Step 9

Preheat oven to 400ºF and arrange a rack in the top and middle of your oven. On a parchment lined baking tray, lay the tofu out in a single layer, making sure some of the marinade has adhered to the slices. Roast tofu on the middle rack for 30 minutes until the tofu has browned on the edges and the jerk seasoning has darkened slightly. Move tray to the top rack and broil on high for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the tofu has begun to char in places.

Step 10

To serve, layer rice, 3 to 4 slices of tofu, plantains and slaw in a large bowl. Garnish with thinly sliced scallion, a sprinkle of cilantro, and lime wedges.