Vegetarian Tofu 'Meatballs' in Tomato Sauce

Contributed by Joslyn Lim on Ninja's Recipe Sharing Group.

Check out more vegetarian recipes on Joslyn's Instagram page.

"These tender tofu balls are in a sweet, mild spicy and full of umami flavour sauce. An amazing alternative to Italian meatballs!"

Ingredients for Tofu Balls:


  • 2 blocks of extra firm tofu/tau kwa

  • 4-6 large shiitake mushrooms

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (tamari/liquid aminos for gluten-free)

  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper

  • 1 tsp ground white pepper

  • 1/2 tsp five-spice powder

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 2 tsp sesame oil

Ingredients for Tomato Sauce:


  • 1 tbsp oil

  • 1 red chili (finely chopped)

  • 2 ripe tomatoes

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1/2 tsp five-spice powder

  • half can of tomato puree

  • 2 tbsp chili paste

  • 1 tsp dried basil flakes / 2 dried bay leaves

  • 1 cup of water

  • Some lime juice

  • Coconut sugar and salt to taste.

Method (Tofu balls):


  1. 1. Start by pressing the extra firm tofu and then chop with shiitake mushroom using the "Chop Function" from Ninja Intellisense Kitchen System (Precision Processor).

  2. 2. Once the tofu and mushrooms are finely chopped, pour it into a mixing bowl and mix with salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Roll the tofu ball in your hand and shape it according to the size of your preference.

  3. 3. You may brush the tofu ball with oil (Optional). Preheat the Ninja Foodi OP300 to 180°C and bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the tofu ball carefully halfway through.

  4. 4. Pour the sauce over the tofu balls and it's ready to serve! 

Homemade Vegetarian Meatballs

Vegetarian Meatballs

Images by Joslyn Lim
Vegetarian Tofu 'Meatballs' in Tomato Sauce