Braised Tofu with Young Corn – A Nutritious and Simple Vegan Dish

Looking for a simple yet nutritious vegan dish for your family? Braised tofu with young corn is the perfect choice! With the natural sweetness of young corn blending with the soft, flavorful tofu, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s explore how to make this tasty braised tofu with young corn in the recipe below!

Braised tofu with young corn dish

Why is Braised Tofu with Young Corn So Popular?

Braised tofu with young corn is not just a simple vegan dish but also offers numerous health benefits. Tofu provides ample plant-based protein, supporting heart health and effective weight loss. Meanwhile, young corn is rich in vitamins, fiber, and minerals that enhance digestion and boost immunity. The combination of these two ingredients creates a dish that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients Needed

• White tofu: 3 pieces (choose soft and smooth type)
• Young corn: 200g (prefer fresh and young)
• Green onions: 2 stalks
• Fresh chili: 1 (optional if you like it spicy)
• Seasonings: Soy sauce, sugar, cooking oil, vegetarian seasoning, ground pepper, shallots, garlic

Ingredients for braised tofu with young corn

Preparing the Ingredients

• Tofu: Rinse clean, cut into bite-sized squares. Optionally, lightly fry to firm up the tofu before braising.
• Young corn: Rinse clean, cut into short pieces.
• Green onions: Rinse clean, finely chop.
• Chili: Remove seeds, thinly slice.
• Shallots and garlic: Peel, finely chop.

Steps to Make Braised Tofu with Young Corn

Step 1: Marinate the Tofu

Place the cut tofu in a bowl, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of vegetarian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of ground pepper. Mix well and marinate for 15-20 minutes to let the tofu absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Place a pot on the stove, add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. When the oil is hot, sauté the chopped shallots and garlic until golden.

Step 3: Braise the Tofu and Young Corn

Add the marinated tofu to the pot, gently stir to avoid breaking the tofu. Then add the young corn.

Step 4: Season the Dish

Add about 100ml of water (just enough to cover the tofu). Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, ½ teaspoon of vegetarian seasoning, and sliced chili (if using). Cover and braise on low heat for 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

When the sauce thickens, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and turn off the heat.

“Lightly frying the tofu before braising will enhance the flavor and appeal of the dish.” – Culinary Expert Nguyen Thi Huong

Finished braised tofu with young corn

Tips to Make the Dish More Appealing

• Lightly fry the tofu to enhance flavor and maintain its shape while braising.
• Braise on low heat to ensure the tofu and young corn absorb the flavors evenly.
• Add straw mushrooms or carrots to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
• A touch of coconut caramel will make the dish more visually appealing.

Creative Variations for Braised Tofu with Young Corn

You can get creative with the dish by adding other ingredients such as:

• Straw mushrooms: Enhance flavor and nutritional value.
• Carrots: Add vibrant color and boost vitamin A.
• Lemongrass and chili: Perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Enjoying the Perfect Dish

Braised tofu with young corn is best enjoyed hot with steamed rice and boiled vegetables. The sweet taste of young corn combined with the soft, flavorful tofu will surely make your meal complete.

“Braised tofu with young corn is an ideal dish for vegans or those looking to lose weight, as it provides ample protein, fiber, and vitamins.” – Nutrition Expert Le Van Duc

Conclusion

With a simple recipe and easily available ingredients, braised tofu with young corn is a fantastic vegan dish for any family. Give it a try and share your results with us! Wishing you success and delicious meals!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use fried tofu instead of white tofu?
Yes, you can substitute, but fried tofu will be richer.

2. Can I omit the chili if I don’t like spicy food?
Yes, you can omit the chili or reduce the amount according to your taste.

3. Can I use American corn instead of young corn?
Yes, you can substitute, but American corn will be sweeter than young corn.

4. How long should I braise the tofu?
Braise for about 15-20 minutes until the tofu and young corn are soft and well-flavored.

5. How long can I store the dish in the refrigerator?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

6. Can I add coconut caramel?
Yes, you can add it to make the dish more visually appealing.