Fried Tofu in Tomato Sauce: Easy Homemade Recipe

Fried tofu in tomato sauce has long been a beloved staple in Vietnamese family meals. With its rich flavor, ease of preparation, and readily available ingredients, this dish not only pairs perfectly with rice but also offers great nutritional value. Let’s explore the standard recipe to make this dish right at home!

Origin and Significance of Fried Tofu in Tomato Sauce

Fried tofu in tomato sauce is a harmonious blend of humble ingredients like soft tofu, naturally sweet and sour tomatoes, and traditional spices. This dish originates from the Vietnamese culinary landscape, associated with simple yet heartwarming meals.

Not only popular in households, fried tofu in tomato sauce frequently appears on the menus of casual eateries and in simple vegetarian fare. Its straightforward preparation and agreeable taste make it a centerpiece on the dining table, evoking childhood memories and feelings of family warmth.

Fried tofu with tomato sauce served in a bowl

Ingredients Needed for Fried Tofu in Tomato Sauce

To make delicious, authentic fried tofu in tomato sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Tofu: 3 blocks (choose medium-firm or soft white tofu, ensure freshness).
• Tomatoes: 4 fruits (ripe, juicy red tomatoes).
• Green onions, shallots, garlic: A moderate amount of each.
• Seasonings: Cooking oil, fish sauce, sugar, salt, ground pepper, MSG (optional).

Additionally, you can add ground meat or straw mushrooms to enhance the flavor.

Detailed Ingredient List (serves 2-3 people):

Ingredients for fried tofu in tomato sauce laid out

Tips for Crispy, Oil-Splatter-Free Fried Tofu

Frying tofu until it’s golden and crispy without oil splattering is a common concern. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Choose a non-stick pan and heat the oil properly: Using a non-stick pan helps minimize oil splatter and prevents tofu from sticking. Heat the oil until it shimmers before adding the tofu.
2. Dredge the tofu in flour: Lightly coating the tofu with cornstarch or tempura flour helps create a crispier crust.
3. Ensure the tofu is very dry: Wet tofu is the main cause of oil splattering. Pat the tofu dry with paper towels or let it drain thoroughly before frying.
4. Double fry (optional): Fry briefly the first time, let it cool, then fry again over high heat for longer-lasting crispiness.

Tofu cubes frying until golden brown in a pan

Detailed Guide: How to Make Fried Tofu in Tomato Sauce

Steps:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
   • Rinse the tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes. Drain well.
   • Cut tomatoes into wedges or chop finely, depending on preference.
   • Mince shallots and garlic, and chop green onions finely.
2. Fry the tofu:
   • Heat oil in a non-stick pan, add tofu and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the tomato sauce:
   • Sauté minced shallots and garlic until fragrant, add tomatoes and sauté until softened and pulpy.
   • Add fish sauce, sugar, salt, ground pepper, and a little water. Simmer over low heat until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and finish:
   • Add the fried tofu to the sauce, gently toss to coat the tofu evenly. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
   • Sprinkle with chopped green onions and ground pepper.
5. Serve:
   • Serve hot with steamed white rice, accompanied by fresh herbs or a vegetable soup.

Finished plate of fried tofu in tomato sauce ready to serve

Creative Variations for Fried Tofu in Tomato Sauce

You can experiment with these variations to refresh the dish:

• Add ground meat: Sauté ground meat with shallots and garlic before adding the tomatoes.
• Incorporate straw mushrooms: Sauté straw mushrooms with the tomatoes for a lighter flavor.
• Spicy version: Add fresh chili or chili sauce for a spicier kick.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

Fried tofu in tomato sauce is not only tasty but also rich in plant-based protein, vitamin C, fiber, and minerals. This dish is good for heart health, aids digestion, and boosts the immune system.

Conclusion

Fried tofu in tomato sauce is a dish that is both delicious and nutritious, perfect for any family. We hope this article helps you confidently enter the kitchen and prepare this appealing dish. Don’t forget to follow “Sổ Tay Món Ăn” to discover more exciting recipes!