Name: Tofu Sisig Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: ½ cup refined coconut cooking oil; 1 block extra-firm tofu (pressed, drained, and cut into small cubes); 2 tablespoons shallots; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 cup mushrooms (diced into small pieces (I used a variety with shitake and oyster mushrooms)); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1-2 pieces red or green chili peppers (chopped (depending on how spicy you want it)); ½ cup white onion (chopped); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ tsp pepper; 1 cup vegan mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice; 1 tablespoon green onions

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Tofu Sisig is a tasty Filipino dish that’s made with fried tofu, chopped chili peppers, and mushrooms. It’s vegan and has a nice spicy kick, packed with flavors you’re sure to enjoy!

Looking for more tofu dishes? Try my Chicken Afritada (made with tofu of course), Bicol Express, Filipino Tofu in Coconut Milk or my personal favorite Tofu Poke or Vegan Kung Pao Tofu!

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Where did Sisig come from?
Health Benefits of Tofu
Substitutions
Variations
Storage
Top Tips
Ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions
Tofu Sisig Recipe

Where did Sisig come from?

The region Pampanga in Luzon. Sisig has been a Filipino dish way back 1732 with the name derived from "sisigan" which in Kapampangan means "to make it sour". During those years, sisig mainly consists of pig ears, snout, belly, and pig cheeks. They cook it three times - boiled, grilled, and finally sautéed with garlic, onion, and lastly drizzled with calamansi juice just before serving.

The popular Filipino dish was frequently given to those suffering from a hangover or from a night of alcoholic overindulgence. It was believed that it prevents vomiting because of its salty and sour flavor, all in one amazing dish.

But as times have gone by, more and more versions of the famous Filipino sisig has been made. Vegetarians, like me, also developed a delicious vegetarian counterpart, which is what I am sharing with you now. The main ingredient is tofu, also known as fermented bean curd. This is a healthier version of the classic meat sisig but nonetheless, tastes so good without the cholesterol guilt

Health Benefits of Tofu

High in plant-based protein for muscle growth and repair
Rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium for strong bones and overall health
Low in calories and fat, aiding in weight management
Contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage
Can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases

a bowl of tofu sisig with red chili on top

Substitutions

Vegetable oil is a good alternative to coconut oil because it's tasteless and has a high heating point.
Replace soy sauce with vegan oyster sauce for richer flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms. Portobello, button, and enoki mushrooms can add unique textures and flavors.

Variations

Take the sisig to the next level by drizzling Philippine lime or calamansi juice (instead of lemon juice) right before serving.
For a milder spice version, reduce the amount of chili peppers or use bell peppers instead.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Tofu Sisig can last up to 3 days when stored properly.
Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or more vegan mayonnaise to keep it creamy.

Top Tips

To make your tofu crust extra crispy, coat it with cornstarch before frying.
Frying Tip: Frying tofu is a bit challenging when the excess water isn't removed. To do this, use the "press" method where you cover the block of tofu with paper towels. Then, find anything in your kitchen that is heavy enough but not too heavy to break the tofu. Place it above the tofu for about 15- 30 minutes. This process will help remove the excess water and the oil splatters when frying the tofu.
Impress guests (or yourself) with your cooking skills, by making this into a sizzling sisig. Simply use a sizzling plate and serve.

Ingredients

Here is the quick look of the ingredients for Tofu Sisig:

refined coconut cooking oil or vegetable oil
vegan mayonnaise
mushrooms
soy sauce
extra-firm tofu
salt
white onion
garlic
red or green chili peppers
shallots
lime juice
brown sugar
pepper
spring onions

Instructions

Once the ingredients are all ready, let's begin!

Heat a nonstick pan or skillet over medium heat, add ½ cup of vegetable oil until it heats up, fry your tofu until all its sides turn golden brown:

Set aside the tofu cubes:

golden brown tofu cubes set aside in a wooden bowl

On the same pan, lower heat. Sauté shallots and minced cloves garlic until fragrant or when onions turn translucent:

sauteed garlic, onions, and mushroom for tofu sisig recipe

On medium heat, sauté mushrooms, and add soy sauce. Allow to cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until the mushrooms become tender:

adding soy sauce to the spices and mushroom

After the mushrooms have tenderized, you can now toss in the fried tofu. Mix well:

Add chili pepper, sauté for a minute. (Can add additional chili pepper if you want it to be spicier):

adding sliced chili or green and red peppers to the tofu sisig

Season with salt and pepper:

adding salt and pepper to the tofu sisig

Add mayonnaise and sauté for a minute or two:

Add brown sugar to taste:

adding dark brown sugar to the tofu sisig

Now it's time to make it look more sumptuous! Garnish it with lime juice and chopped spring onions or leeks:

healthy and delicious tofu sisig on a sizzling plate

Serve hot. This Tofu sisig is best enjoyed with steamed white rice or brown rice. You can even eat this together with quinoa and other healthy grains.