Braised Broccoli with Tofu – A Nutritious and Simple Vegetarian Dish for Your Family

Braised broccoli with tofu is a nutritious vegetarian dish that is easy to prepare and suitable for any family meal. The combination of naturally sweet and crunchy broccoli with creamy tofu creates a unique flavor that is both delicious and nourishing. Let’s explore how to make this dish with the detailed instructions below!

Why Add Braised Broccoli with Tofu to Your Menu?

Broccoli and tofu are not only common ingredients in vegetarian dishes but also offer many fantastic health benefits:

• Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system, protect the heart, and aid in cancer prevention.
• Tofu provides a rich source of plant-based protein, is low in calories, and contains no cholesterol, making it ideal for vegetarians or those on a weight loss diet.

“The combination of broccoli and tofu not only delivers a tasty meal but also ensures a supply of essential nutrients.” – Nutrition Expert Thanh Lan

Braised Broccoli with Tofu Dish

Ingredients Needed

To prepare braised broccoli with tofu, you will need the following ingredients:

• Broccoli: 1 head (about 300g)
• White tofu or pre-fried tofu: 2 blocks
• Green onions: 2 stalks
• Fresh chili: 1 (optional, to taste)
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Seasonings: cooking oil, soy sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, MSG (optional)

Tips for Choosing Fresh Broccoli

Selecting the right ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor of the dish. Here are some tips for choosing fresh broccoli:

• Prioritize broccoli with a deep, even green color, without any yellowing.
• Check the firmness of the stem and the tightness of the florets.
• Avoid buying broccoli that is bruised, has pests, or has an odd smell.

Detailed Recipe for Braised Broccoli with Tofu

1. Preparing the Ingredients

• Broccoli: Wash thoroughly, cut into bite-sized pieces. Soak in lightly salted water for about 10 minutes, then drain.
• Tofu: Gently wash, cut into bite-sized cubes. If using pre-fried tofu, you can cut it in half or leave it whole.
• Green onions & fresh chili: Wash and finely chop.
• Garlic: Peel and mince.

2. Braising the Tofu

• Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pot, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
• Add the tofu and lightly fry until all sides are golden.
• Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Gently stir to let the tofu absorb the flavors.
• Pour about 1 cup of water into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and braise for 10 minutes.

3. Adding the Broccoli

• Add the broccoli to the pot, gently stir.
• Bring to a boil again, then reduce heat and cover the pot. Braise for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is just cooked.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste.

4. Finishing the Dish

• Turn off the heat, sprinkle with green onions and fresh chili.
• Serve the dish hot with white rice.

Finished Braised Broccoli with Tofu

Tips for Making Braised Broccoli with Tofu Even Tastier

• Add 1-2 tablespoons of soy bean paste to enhance the flavor.
• For a spicier taste, use chili powder or chili sauce.
• Garnish with cilantro or parsley to make the dish more appealing.

Creative Variations of Braised Broccoli with Tofu

• Braise with mushrooms: Replace tofu with straw mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, or oyster mushrooms.
• Add carrots: Combine broccoli and carrot pieces to increase nutritional value.
• Braise with soy bean paste: Use soy bean paste instead of soy sauce for a unique flavor.

Conclusion

Braised broccoli with tofu is a simple yet nutritious dish, perfect for a light family meal. With the detailed recipe above, you can confidently cook this dish at home. Don’t forget to share your results with us!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of braised broccoli with tofu?

This dish is rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein, which is great for heart health, digestion, and the immune system.

2. How to keep broccoli from getting mushy?

Just braise it until it’s just cooked to maintain its crunchiness and vibrant green color.

3. Can I substitute tofu with other ingredients?

Yes, you can replace tofu with mushrooms, carrots, or other vegetables according to your preference.

4. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely, as all ingredients are purely vegetarian.

5. How to store the dish?

It’s best to consume it on the same day to preserve the flavor. If there are leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.