Best 2 Spicy Braised Tofu Recipes
**Spicy Braised Tofu: A Flavorful Journey for Vegan and Tofu Lovers**
Embark on a culinary adventure with our spicy braised tofu recipe, a delectable dish that tantalizes taste buds with its perfect balance of heat and savory flavors. This vegan-friendly dish showcases the versatility of tofu, transforming it into a centerpiece that is both tender and packed with umami richness. Accompanied by a symphony of vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms, this dish is a symphony of textures and colors.
Dive into the aromatic world of spices as we introduce you to a medley of ginger, garlic, and chili peppers, which dance together in a harmonious blend. The addition of soy sauce and rice vinegar adds a depth of flavor that is both tangy and savory, while the touch of sweetness from brown sugar creates a harmonious balance. This symphony of flavors is further enhanced by the velvety smoothness of coconut milk, which adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
Within this comprehensive guide, you'll find variations that cater to diverse dietary preferences and spice levels. From a classic version for those seeking a moderate kick to a fiery rendition for those who love the heat, we've got you covered. Additionally, we've included a gluten-free adaptation for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can savor this delightful dish.
So, prepare to ignite your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey with our spicy braised tofu recipe. Whether you're a seasoned vegan, a tofu enthusiast, or simply a lover of flavorful cuisine, this dish promises an unforgettable experience.
SPICY BRAISED TOFU
You'll find a version of this quicker-than-quick soy-braised tofu on many Korean tables as a banchan, or small plate. But with rice and a side of greens, it's dinner exactly when you need it: right now.
Provided by Christina Chaey
Categories Bon Appétit Dinner Lunch Braise Tofu Soy Sauce Green Onion/Scallion Ginger Sesame Oil Sesame Vegetarian Vegan Dairy Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Quick & Easy
Yield 2 servings
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Wrap tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Weigh down with a heavy object (a couple of heavy cans works well) and let sit 10 minutes. Unwrap tofu and slice in half lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 6 sections to create 12 squares.
- Whisk soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, gochugaru, and 3 Tbsp. water in a small bowl to combine; set sauce aside.
- Trim dark green top from scallion and thinly slice; set aside. Thinly slice remaining white and pale green parts of scallion. Heat 1 Tbsp. grapeseed oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Carefully add tofu in a single layer and lightly season with salt. Cook, undisturbed, until golden brown, about 5 minutes; turn over and cook until golden brown on other side, about 5 minutes. Transfer tofu to a plate; reserve skillet (no need to wipe out).
- Heat remaining 1 Tbsp. grapeseed oil in reserved skillet over medium. Cook scallion white and pale green parts, garlic, and ginger, stirring, until softened but not browned, about 1 minute.
- Return tofu to skillet. Pour in reserved sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, turning tofu once or twice and occasionally spooning sauce over, until sauce is reduced by about half, about 4 minutes.
- Transfer tofu to a large plate, spoon sauce over, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and reserved scallion top. Serve with rice alongside.
SPICY BRAISED TOFU
This is an incredibly mouth-watering Chinese dish. Blanched tofu is simmered in a spicy sauce with garlic shoots, then sprinkled with ground Sichuan peppercorns.
Provided by Chelsea
Categories World Cuisine Recipes Asian Chinese
Time 36m
Yield 2
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add tofu; boil for 1 to 2 minutes. Drain.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook and stir the chili bean paste until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add ginger and chile powder; cook and stir until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
- Stir tofu into the skillet; pour in enough water to cover. Bring to a boil. Stir in garlic scapes, soy sauce, and salt. Reduce heat and simmer until flavors combine, about 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 teaspoon water and cornstarch together in a small bowl until cornstarch is dissolved. Pour into the skillet and stir gently until sauce thickens, 3 to 5 minutes. Sprinkle ground Sichuan peppercorns on top.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 499.7 calories, Carbohydrate 48 g, Fat 25.5 g, Fiber 7.1 g, Protein 28.1 g, SaturatedFat 3.7 g, Sodium 955.8 mg, Sugar 1.9 g
Tips:
- Choose the right tofu: For this recipe, it's best to use extra-firm or firm tofu. This type of tofu will hold its shape better during the braising process and won't fall apart.
- Press the tofu: Pressing the tofu before cooking helps to remove excess water and makes it more flavorful. To press the tofu, wrap it in a few layers of paper towels and place it on a plate. Place another plate on top of the tofu and weigh it down with something heavy, such as a can of beans or a heavy skillet. Let the tofu press for at least 30 minutes.
- Use a variety of spices: The spices used in this recipe can be adjusted to your taste. For a milder dish, use less chili sauce or cayenne pepper. For a spicier dish, add more.
- Don't overcook the tofu: Tofu is a delicate protein and can easily be overcooked. Cook the tofu until it is heated through and slightly golden brown, but not so long that it becomes tough.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Spicy braised tofu can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Conclusion:
Spicy braised tofu is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The tofu is braised in a flavorful sauce made with chili sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. The tofu is cooked until it is tender and slightly golden brown, and the sauce is thick and flavorful. Serve the tofu with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love
