Salad · Lunch · African ·

Radiant Ethiopian Ayib Tofu Salad with Berbere Vinaigrette

This Ethiopian-inspired salad marries the smoothness of ayib (a type of Ethiopian cheese) with the satisfying firmness of tofu, all uplifted by a zesty berbere vinaigrette.

4.3(787 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Radiant Ethiopian Ayib Tofu Salad with Berbere Vinaigrette — Salad served and photographed from above
Prep
27 min
Cook
1 h 20 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Marinating the Tofu

  1. 1

    Mix marinade

    In a large bowl, mix olive oil, berbere spice, and minced garlic.

  2. 2

    Coat tofu

    Add tofu cubes to the mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly.

  3. 3

    Marinate

    Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

    Tip: Ensure tofu is well-pressed to remove excess moisture. Pro Tip: Use a tofu press for even better results when marinating.

Preparing the Ayib Cheese

  1. 1

    Combine ingredients

    In a medium-sized bowl, combine ricotta cheese with lemon juice.

  2. 2

    Season

    Add a pinch of salt and mix until smooth.

  3. 3

    Chill

    Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

How to Make Radiant Ethiopian Ayib Tofu Salad with Berbere Vinaigrette

Total time: 1 h 47 min · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Cook Tofu

    Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and fry marinated tofu for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

  2. 2

    Make Vinaigrette

    In a small jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, berbere spice, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake well to mix.

  3. 3

    Toss Salad Base

    In a large bowl, gently toss mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber with a portion of the vinaigrette.

Chef's Tips

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

    Can I substitute the ayib cheese?

    Yes, cottage cheese or a soft goat cheese can be used instead.

    Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

    Absolutely! Simply use a vegan ricotta and maple syrup instead of honey.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

    Can I use a different spice mix?

    While berbere is traditional, you can experiment with other spice blends like garam masala.

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