Braised Tofu with Straw Mushrooms – A Nutritious Family Meal

Are you looking for a nutritious and easy-to-make dish to add to your daily menu? Braised tofu with straw mushrooms is the perfect suggestion for you! With its rich flavor and naturally sweet and tender taste, this dish is not only suitable for vegetarians but also an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy meal.

1. Ingredients Needed for Braised Tofu with Straw Mushrooms

To prepare a delicious braised tofu with straw mushrooms, you will need the following ingredients:

• White tofu: 4 blocks (choose soft and smooth, not sour)
• Straw mushrooms: 200g (preferably fresh, unopened buds)
• Green onions and cilantro: 1 stalk each
• Garlic: 3 cloves
• Fresh chili: 1 (optional, according to taste)
• Seasonings: Soy sauce, sugar, cooking oil, pepper, MSG (optional), vegetarian fish sauce (for vegetarians)

Fresh ingredients for braised tofu with straw mushrooms

Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients:

• Tofu: Choose tofu that is ivory in color, soft, and free from sour or strange smells.
• Straw mushrooms: Opt for small, unopened buds that are black or gray and not damaged.

2. Preparing the Ingredients

Thorough preparation plays a crucial role in creating the delicious flavor of the dish:

• Tofu: Wash and cut into bite-sized squares. Lightly fry to keep the tofu firm during braising.
• Straw mushrooms: Trim the stems, soak in lightly salted water for about 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly several times.
• Green onions and cilantro: Wash and finely chop.
• Garlic and chili: Mince and slice according to preference.

Note: Soaking straw mushrooms in salted water helps remove impurities and enhance food safety.

3. Instructions for Making Braised Tofu with Straw Mushrooms

Here is the detailed recipe to help you prepare an appealing braised tofu with straw mushrooms:

Step 1: Marinate the Tofu

• Place the fried tofu in a bowl, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of sugar, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and ½ teaspoon of MSG (if using). Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

• Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pot. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 3: Braise the Tofu and Straw Mushrooms

• Add the straw mushrooms to the pot and quickly stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Then, add the marinated tofu along with 1 cup of water (or fresh coconut water to enhance the natural sweetness).
• Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and chili (if you like it spicy).

Step 4: Simmer on Low Heat

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. Stir the tofu gently during the process to prevent burning.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

• Adjust the seasoning to taste. Add the green onions and cilantro at the end, then turn off the heat.

Delicious and appealing braised tofu with straw mushrooms

Secrets to Making Delicious Braised Tofu with Straw Mushrooms:

• Use fresh coconut water instead of plain water to enhance the natural sweetness.
• Braising on low heat helps the tofu and mushrooms absorb the flavors evenly.

4. How to Enjoy Braised Tofu with Straw Mushrooms

Braised tofu with straw mushrooms is best enjoyed hot with white rice. You can drizzle some of the braising sauce over the rice to enhance the flavor. Additionally, this dish pairs well with cucumber, tomatoes, or other fresh vegetables.

“The combination of soft, sweet tofu and crunchy straw mushrooms will provide a wonderful culinary experience for the whole family,” shares Chef Trần Văn Nam.

5. Creative Variations for Braised Tofu with Straw Mushrooms

You can create variations of this dish in many different ways:

• Vegetarian version: Substitute fish sauce with vegetarian soy sauce.
• Adding ground meat: Combine tofu and straw mushrooms with ground meat to enhance the flavor.
• Adding tomatoes: Add tomatoes to the braise for a unique sweet and sour taste.

“Experiment with your favorite ingredients to create your own signature dish!” – Blogger Mai Anh.

Conclusion

With its mild flavor and high nutritional value, braised tofu with straw mushrooms is an ideal dish for every family meal. Try this recipe today and share your thoughts with us!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• How long should I braise the tofu with straw mushrooms for the best flavor?
  Braise for about 20-30 minutes on low heat to allow the tofu and mushrooms to absorb the flavors evenly.
• Can I substitute straw mushrooms with other types of mushrooms?
  Yes, you can use shiitake mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, or other types according to your preference.
• How can I make the dish look more appealing?
  Add a bit of caramel sauce or use fresh coconut water.
• What is the best way to enjoy braised tofu with straw mushrooms?
  This dish is best enjoyed with hot, freshly cooked white rice.