Sesame Fried Tofu Braise: Delicious Recipe, Easy to Make at Home

Sesame fried tofu braise is a familiar dish in Vietnamese family meals, offering a light yet appealing flavor. The combination of rich tofu, aromatic sesame, and savory sauce creates a perfect meal companion. Let’s explore the detailed recipe to make sesame fried tofu braise deliciously at home!

Why Is Sesame Fried Tofu Braise Loved?

Not only is it a healthy vegetarian dish, sesame fried tofu braise is also an ideal choice for days when you want to switch up your meals or seek a nutrient-rich option. The reasons why this dish is loved include:

• Unique flavor: The richness of tofu blends with the nutty sesame and savory sauce.
• Easy-to-find ingredients: Tofu and sesame are readily available at most markets and supermarkets.
• High in nutrition: Tofu provides plant-based protein, while sesame is rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Suitable for all: From adults to children, and from vegetarians to non-vegetarians, everyone can enjoy it.

Sesame Fried Tofu Braise Dish

Tips for Choosing Quality Tofu for the Perfect Dish

The quality of tofu greatly influences the flavor of sesame fried tofu braise. Here are some tips to help you choose good tofu:

• Color: Choose tofu with a natural ivory color, avoiding those that are too white or yellow.
• Elasticity: Gently press the tofu; if it feels firm and does not crumble, it’s good quality.
• Aroma: Good tofu has a light soybean scent, with no strange odors.
• Origin: Prefer buying tofu from reputable stores to ensure food safety.

Detailed Recipe for Making Sesame Fried Tofu Braise

Ingredients:

• Tofu: 5 blocks (soft or pre-fried, according to preference)
• Sesame seeds: 3 tablespoons
• Green onions: 2 stalks
• Fresh chili: 1 (optional, to taste)
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Seasonings: Fish sauce, sugar, cooking oil, seasoning powder, pepper.

Steps:

1. Preparation:

• Tofu: Cut into bite-sized squares. If using soft tofu, fry it first to increase firmness.
• Green onions: Wash and chop finely.
• Fresh chili & garlic: Mince finely.

2. Frying the Tofu:

• Heat cooking oil in a pan, add tofu, and fry until golden on all sides. Remove and let drain.

3. Making the Sauce:

• Mix well: 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon seasoning powder, ½ teaspoon pepper, and minced chili (to taste).

4. Braising the Tofu:

• Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add the sauce and bring to a boil.
• Add the fried tofu to the pan, gently stir to coat with the sauce.
• Simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before turning off the heat.

Sesame Fried Tofu Braise Preparation

Tips for a Better Dish:

• Marinate the tofu: Before frying, marinate the tofu with a bit of fish sauce and pepper to enhance flavor.
• Add chili sauce: If you like it spicy, you can add chili sauce to the sauce.
• Substitute ingredients: Use palm sugar instead of white sugar for a unique flavor.

Variations with Vegetables

To make sesame fried tofu braise more diverse, you can add various vegetables such as:

• Straw mushrooms: Enhances natural sweetness.
• Carrots: Adds vitamin A and vibrant color.
• Green beans: Crunchy and high in fiber.

Add the vegetables to the pan while braising the tofu, cook until tender, and you’re done.

“I often add straw mushrooms to my sesame fried tofu braise. The harmonious flavor of mushrooms and tofu makes my whole family crazy about it!” – Shared by Mrs. Nguyen Thi Lan.

Health Benefits of Sesame Fried Tofu Braise

This dish is not only delicious but also very good for health:

• Plant-based protein: Helps build and repair muscles.
• Good for the heart: Reduces bad cholesterol, preventing heart disease.
• Aids digestion: Rich in fiber, improving the digestive system.
• Rich in vitamins & minerals: Sesame provides vitamin E, calcium, and magnesium.

“Tofu is an ideal food in a healthy diet. I often cook sesame fried tofu braise because it’s easy to make and nutritious.” – According to Dr. Le Van Hung.

Proper Storage Methods

To keep the dish fresh and tasty:

• Cool before storing.
• Refrigerate: Seal in a container and use within 2-3 days.
• Reheat before eating: Use a microwave or pan.

Conclusion

With a simple recipe and easy-to-find ingredients, sesame fried tofu braise is a wonderful dish for family meals. Give it a try and share your results with us!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Question: Can I use pre-fried tofu?
  Answer: Yes, pre-fried tofu saves time.
• Question: Can I omit the chili if I don’t like spicy food?
  Answer: Yes, you can omit the chili or reduce the amount as desired.
• Question: Do I need to roast the sesame seeds again?
  Answer: Not necessarily, but roasting them again will enhance the aroma.
• Question: Can I substitute fish sauce with another seasoning?
  Answer: Yes, you can use soy sauce or vegetarian seasoning.