BRYN MAWR, Pa. (WPVI) — Welcome to this edition of The Dish, where we explore a cherished haven dedicated to health and wellness that truly begins at the foundational level.
Today, we visit Arrowroot Apothecary & Café in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, to discover their beloved sesame braised tofu recipe.
Even if tofu isn’t your usual go-to, this dish might just change your mind, as it is a favorite among many!
“Everyone who works here contributes to the healing experience as soon as you arrive,” says owner Debbi Niggeman.
Welcome to this edition of The Dish, where we explore a cherished haven dedicated to health and wellness that truly begins at the foundational level.
For 50 years, Arrowroot Apothecary & Café has been a beloved fixture on Lancaster Avenue in Bryn Mawr.
When the previous owners announced their closure, integrative health practitioner Debbi Niggeman took action to preserve the establishment.
“I stepped in and revitalized it,” she explains. “We moved it across the street and transformed it into a modern apothecary. We made this move in 2018. As a former customer with a background in nutrition, my goal has always been to understand how we heal and to assist others in their healing journey.”
At the apothecary, the focus is on uncovering the root causes of health concerns.
“When clients come in, we always ask: ‘Why are you feeling this way? What symptoms do you have, and why?’ Our goal is to help them discover the underlying issues, so they leave with actionable steps toward better health,” she continues.
The shop offers a wide range of products, from skincare and supplements to home goods and herbs.
“In the café, all our dishes are made fresh each day,” Niggeman emphasizes. “We prepare fresh food daily, and our smoothies are blended to order with no fillers—just real fruits and vegetables. Everything is organic, and we serve two different fresh soups every day.”
All of Chef Joel Lambert’s creations are both gluten-free and plant-based.
It’s all about nourishing food, healthy living, and positive energy.
“When someone returns to share how much better they feel, that’s what we strive for,” Niggeman shares.
Sesame Braised Tofu Recipe from Arrowroot Apothecary & Café:
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tamari
– 1/3 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/3 cup maple syrup
– 1 oz fresh, finely chopped ginger
– 1 package firm tofu
Directions:
1. In a blender, combine the tamari, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, and chopped ginger. Blend until well mixed.
2. Pour the mixture over a package of firm tofu, cut into triangles or your preferred shape.
3. Bake at 300 degrees for approximately one and a half hours, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
TIP: To improve the texture of the tofu, freeze it beforehand. Once you’re ready to cook, defrost and drain it; this will make it less mushy and more meaty.
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