Spicy Braised Tofu Skin with Lemongrass & Chili

Tofu skin is a familiar ingredient in many vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, offering a unique flavor and high nutritional value. If you’re looking for a simple yet appealing dish to add variety to your family meals, this recipe for braised tofu skin with chili and lemongrass is an excellent choice. Let’s explore the detailed recipe below to create this rich and aromatic dish!

Understanding Tofu Skin – The Star Ingredient

Before we start cooking braised tofu skin with chili and lemongrass, let’s learn a little about the main ingredient. Tofu skin (also known as yuba or bean curd sheets) is made from soybeans. During the process of boiling soy milk, a thin film forms on the surface. This film is collected and dried to become tofu skin – a protein-rich, safe, and healthy ingredient.

Dried tofu skin sheets

Not only popular in vegetarian cuisine, tofu skin is also used versatilely in many savory dishes like stir-fries, deep-fries, and braises. When combined with chili and lemongrass, it creates an irresistibly spicy and fragrant dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make braised tofu skin with chili and lemongrass, prepare the following ingredients:

• Dried tofu skin sheets: 200g
• Minced lemongrass: 3 stalks
• Minced chili: 2-3 (adjust to taste)
• Leeks: 2 stalks
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon
• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
• Other seasonings: Salt, seasoning powder, ground pepper
• Fresh vegetables, cucumber (for serving)

Steps to Make Braised Tofu Skin with Chili & Lemongrass

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Soak the dried tofu skin in warm water for about 15 minutes until softened. Then, cut it into rectangular pieces approximately 3x5cm.
• Wash the lemongrass thoroughly and mince finely. Wash the chili and mince finely. Thinly slice the leeks.
• Wash the fresh vegetables and cucumber, then let them drain.

Step 2: Sauté the Lemongrass Chili Mixture

• Heat the cooking oil in a pan, then add the sliced leeks and sauté until fragrant.
• Add the minced lemongrass and chili. Stir-fry continuously until aromatic and the mixture looks slightly dry.

Sautéing minced lemongrass and chili in a pan

Step 3: Braise the Tofu Skin

• Add the prepared tofu skin to the pan, stirring gently to coat it evenly with the lemongrass-chili mixture.
• Add soy sauce, sugar, a pinch of salt, and seasoning powder. Stir gently to combine the seasonings.
• Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the tofu skin to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

• Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle with a little ground pepper to enhance the flavor.
• Turn off the heat, transfer the dish to a plate, and garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired.

Plating and Enjoying Braised Tofu Skin with Chili & Lemongrass

The finished braised tofu skin with chili and lemongrass boasts an appealing color and a captivating aroma from the lemongrass and chili. The spicy kick of the chili combined with the chewy yet tender texture of the tofu skin creates a rich and enticing dish.

You can serve this dish with steamed white rice, fresh vegetables, or cucumber slices to add a refreshing contrast and balance the flavors. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone in the family.

Conclusion

With this simple yet delicious recipe for braised tofu skin with chili and lemongrass, you have a fantastic new dish to add to your weekly meal rotation. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also highly nutritious and suitable for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Give it a try and taste the difference in every perfectly seasoned piece of tofu skin!

If you’d like to explore more delicious tofu skin recipes or purchase quality ingredients, be sure to visit our website. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious meals!