Tofu and spinach pies

Tofu and spinach pies are a culinary delight perfect for those looking for a quick, simple, and delicious recipe that fits perfectly within the fasting period. This dish offers a savory combination of textures and flavors, and in addition, it is an excellent option for a vegan meal. Here’s how to prepare them step by step, achieving a perfect result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g firm tofu
- 300 g fresh spinach (or frozen)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 package of pie dough (or puff pastry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Sesame seeds (optional, for decoration)

Preparing the tofu and spinach pies:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach well under cold running water. If using frozen spinach, thawing it is essential; make sure it is well-drained after thawing. Wrap the tofu in a few paper towels and set it aside for 10-15 minutes to absorb excess water, which will help achieve a more compact filling.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

3. Add the spinach: Incorporate the spinach into the skillet, stirring constantly until it completely wilts (if using fresh spinach, this will take a few minutes). If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Prepare the tofu: After the tofu has absorbed the water, cut it into small cubes and add it to the skillet over the spinach. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the tofu takes on a slightly browned texture. You can use a fork to mash the tofu a bit for a more uniform consistency.

5. Fill the dough: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the pie dough on a clean surface and cut it into squares or circles, depending on the desired shape. Place a tablespoon of the tofu and spinach filling in the center of each square, then fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork or by pressing them by hand.

6. Bake the pies: Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, you can brush them with a little olive oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a more attractive appearance. Bake the pies for 25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

7. Serving: Let the pies cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and cold, making them ideal as an appetizer or snack. You can accompany them with a vegan yogurt sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Possible variations:
- You can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want a more intense taste, add some chopped olives or a bit of soy sauce to the tofu and spinach mixture.

These tofu and spinach pies are not only a quick recipe but also a healthy and nourishing option, perfect for any occasion. Try them and let their flavor take you away!