Braised Tofu w/ Pan Sauce Gravy

1: Preheat an oven to 325°F.

2: Score each tofu block in a crosswise pattern at about 1/2-inch depth.

3: Heat a cast iron pan over medium high heat for 3 minutes.

4: Season each block of tofu with salt and pepper.

5: Add grapeseed oil to the pan, heat for 30 seconds, then add tofu blocks scored side down.

6: Sear the tofu until golden brown on both sides, then remove from the pan.

7: Sweat onions and carrots in the pan with a pinch of salt.

8: Add celery and garlic, continuing to sweat for 1 to 2 minutes.

9: Deglaze the pan with red wine and pour in vegetable broth; bring to a boil.

10: Add tofu back into the pan, submerging it halfway.

11: Place the pan in the oven and braise for 3 hours, adding 1 cup of water every hour.

12: Remove from the oven and place tofu in a separate oven-safe pan to keep warm.

13: Blend the braising liquid until smooth and creamy.

14: Serve tofu over mashed potatoes with gravy and fresh parsley.