Tofu and Dauphine: A Delicious Combination with Mayonnaise Sauce

Tofu and Dauphine, a delightful pairing that brings together the creamy texture of tofu with the light, airy nature of Dauphine potatoes, is an exquisite dish that can tantalize your taste buds. When complemented with a rich, homemade mayonnaise sauce, this recipe transforms into a gourmet experience that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Tofu and Dauphine

400g firm tofu
500g potatoes (preferably starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold)
2 large eggs
100g all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Mayonnaise Sauce

1 large egg (room temperature)
200ml vegetable oil (like sunflower or canola)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
Salt to taste
A pinch of pepper (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Dauphine

Cook the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Once cooked, drain and mash them until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly.
Make the Choux Pastry: In a saucepan, combine 250ml of water, 100g of flour, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Combine: Add the mashed potatoes to the choux mixture. Stir in the eggs one at a time, incorporating thoroughly. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
Shape the Dauphine: Using a spoon or a piping bag, shape the mixture into small balls or quenelles.
Fry the Dauphine: In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F). Carefully drop the shaped Dauphine into the hot oil. Fry in batches until golden brown and crispy, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Preparing the Tofu

Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes about 2cm in size.
Seasoning: Sprinkle the tofu cubes with salt and pepper. If desired, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce and garlic for 15 minutes for added flavor.
Fry the Tofu: In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Making the Mayonnaise Sauce

Blend the Ingredients: In a tall container, combine the egg, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Use an immersion blender to blend while gradually adding the vegetable oil in a steady stream. Continue blending until the sauce thickens.
Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Plate the crispy Dauphine alongside the golden tofu cubes, drizzling the homemade mayonnaise sauce generously over the top. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips

Selecting Tofu: Always choose firm or extra-firm tofu for frying, as it holds its shape better.
Dauphine Consistency: Ensure the potato mixture is smooth to achieve the light, airy texture characteristic of Dauphine.
Mayonnaise Variations: For a spicy kick, add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mayonnaise sauce.

Variations

Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs in both the Dauphine and mayonnaise with aquafaba (chickpea water) to create a vegan-friendly dish.
Herbed Variations: Incorporate fresh herbs or spices into the Dauphine mixture for additional flavor, such as thyme or rosemary.

Final Thoughts

This Tofu and Dauphine dish with homemade mayonnaise sauce is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. The contrasting textures of crispy tofu and fluffy Dauphine make it a memorable addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a unique weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

For more culinary inspiration, check out this guide on perfecting your frying techniques or explore the art of homemade sauces.

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your Tofu and Dauphine creations with fellow food enthusiasts!