Oil-Free Braised Tofu with Black Pepper Recipe

Oil-free braised tofu with black pepper is a simple yet nutritious dish, suitable for family meals and those following a healthy eating plan. This dish combines soft tofu and crisp, sweet straw mushrooms with a rich, slightly spicy black pepper sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor. Let’s explore how to prepare this dish in the article below.

Appetizing bowl of oil-free braised tofu with black pepper and mushrooms

Ingredients Needed

To make oil-free braised tofu with black pepper, you will need the following ingredients:

• Tofu: 180g (rinsed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Straw mushrooms: 150g (trim ends, rinse clean)
• Shallot: 1 bulb (minced)
• Scallion: 1 stalk (thinly sliced)
• Seasoning:
  • Soy sauce: 30ml
  • Fish sauce: 30ml (or vegetarian fish sauce if vegetarian)
  • Chili sauce: 15ml
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Ground black pepper: 1/8 teaspoon
  • Water: 78ml

Steps

Step 1: Make the Caramel Sauce

The caramel sauce is crucial for the color and flavor of the braised tofu. Here’s how to make it:

1. Add 30ml water and 22g sugar to a heavy-bottomed pot.
2. Cook over low heat until the sugar turns caramel brown.
3. Add minced shallot, sauté until fragrant, then turn off the heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

Instead of deep-frying the tofu in oil, you can use the oil-free pan-searing method to keep the dish healthier:

1. Place a non-stick pan on the stove; no oil is needed.
2. Pan-sear the tofu pieces until all sides are golden brown.
3. Remove the tofu and set aside.

Step 3: Braise Tofu and Mushrooms

1. In a small bowl, mix the sauce ingredients: 30ml soy sauce, 30ml fish sauce, 15ml chili sauce, and 78ml water.
2. Arrange the pan-seared tofu and straw mushrooms in the pot with the caramel sauce.
3. Pour the mixed sauce over the tofu and mushrooms. Turn on the heat to medium.
4. When the sauce boils, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 7-10 minutes, allowing the tofu and mushrooms to absorb the flavors.
5. Before turning off the heat, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle with ground black pepper and sliced scallions.

Finished dish of oil-free braised tofu with pepper garnished with scallions

Health Benefits of Tofu and Straw Mushrooms

Tofu and straw mushrooms not only create a special flavor but also offer many nutritional benefits:

• Tofu: Rich in plant-based protein, good for heart health and digestion.
• Straw Mushrooms: Provide natural protein, contain ergothioneine which acts as an antioxidant and boosts immunity.

Conclusion

Making oil-free braised tofu with black pepper is not only simple but also very healthy. With its rich flavor, this dish is sure to be a highlight of your family meal. Try it out and share your experience!

Beautifully presented oil-free braised tofu with pepper served in a bowl

References

• Afamily.vn – Món chay ngon và bổ dưỡng
• Preparing Vegetarian Dishes