Tasty Braised Tofu

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu (cut into thick rectangles or triangles)
• 2 tbsp cooking oil (for pan-frying)
• 3 garlic (minced)
• 1 inch ginger (sliced or minced)
• 2 green onions (white and green parts separated, chopped)
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce (for color)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 0.5 tsp sugar
• 0.5 cup water
• 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water for slurry)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the tofu by cutting the block into thick rectangles or triangles. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear.

2. 2

   Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

3. 3

   Place the tofu pieces in the pan in a single layer. Pan-fry until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy, then flip and fry the other side until golden. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.

4. 4

   In the same pan, add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

5. 5

   Add the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar to the pan. Stir to combine.

6. 6

   Pour in 1/2 cup of water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

7. 7

   Return the fried tofu to the pan, tossing gently to coat each piece in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavors.

8. 8

   Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

9. 9

   Garnish with the green parts of the chopped green onions and serve hot.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of chili bean paste (Doubanjiang) or dried chili flakes when sautéing the aromatics.

Nutrition per serving

• tofu
• vegetarian
• braised
• chinese food
• main dish
• quick meal
• pan-fried