Delicious and Easy Homemade Braised Tofu with Pickled Mustard Greens

Braised tofu with pickled mustard greens is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any Vietnamese family meal. The combination of the mildly sour pickled mustard greens and the soft, creamy tofu creates a rich, unforgettable flavor. If you’re looking for a braised tofu with pickled mustard greens recipe that’s both delicious and authentic, explore our guide below!

Ingredients

To make braised tofu with pickled mustard greens, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Tofu: 3 blocks of white tofu (choose soft or pre-fried, depending on your preference)
• Pickled mustard greens: 300g (choose greens that are moderately sour, neither too soft nor too hard)
• Scallions and cilantro: A small amount, finely chopped
• Fresh chili: 1-2 (depending on your taste)
• Seasonings: Cooking oil, fish sauce, sugar, salt, MSG, black pepper, shallots, garlic

Braised Tofu with Pickled Mustard Greens Ingredients

Preparing the Ingredients

Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the dish turns out perfectly:

• Tofu: Wash and cut into bite-sized cubes. If using pre-fried tofu, rinse briefly with warm water to reduce oiliness.
• Pickled mustard greens: Rinse multiple times with water to lessen the sourness and saltiness. Cut into bite-sized pieces and gently squeeze out excess liquid.
• Scallions and cilantro: Wash and finely chop.
• Chili: Wash, then slice or finely chop according to taste.
• Shallots and garlic: Peel and mince.

Steps to Cook

Frying the Tofu (if using white tofu)

If you’re using white tofu, a quick fry will help it maintain its shape during braising:

• Heat a pan over the stove and add cooking oil.
• Fry the tofu until golden on all sides, then remove and drain excess oil.

Fried Tofu for Braising

Marinating the Tofu

• Place the fried tofu in a bowl, add 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of MSG.
• Mix well and let the tofu marinate for 15-20 minutes.

Braising the Tofu with Pickled Mustard Greens

• Heat a pot over the stove, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil.
• Sauté minced shallots and garlic until fragrant, then add the pickled mustard greens and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the marinated tofu to the pot, gently stirring to avoid breaking the tofu.
• Pour in enough water to just cover the tofu and pickled mustard greens.
• Season with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of MSG, and chili (to taste).
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and braise for 20-30 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors.
• Occasionally turn the tofu gently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Braised Tofu with Pickled Mustard Greens

Tips for a More Delicious Dish

• Choose quality pickled mustard greens: Opt for greens that are moderately sour, with a nice yellow color and a distinct aroma.
• Fry the tofu thoroughly: A crispy outer layer from frying will help the tofu hold its shape while braising.
• Braise on low heat: Simmering on low heat allows the flavors of the tofu and pickled mustard greens to meld perfectly.
• Add coconut caramel: Coconut caramel can enhance the dish’s color and deepen its flavor.

Variations of Braised Tofu with Pickled Mustard Greens

You can get creative with this dish in several ways:

• Vegan version: Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce and use vegan MSG.
• Add ground meat: Ground meat can add more nutrition and appeal to the dish.
• Use pork ribs: Replace tofu with pork ribs for a different taste.

Enjoying the Dish

Braised tofu with pickled mustard greens is best enjoyed hot with steamed rice. The harmonious sweet and sour flavors of the dish are sure to be a hit with your family, especially on chilly days.

Serving Braised Tofu with Pickled Mustard Greens

Conclusion

With this simple braised tofu with pickled mustard greens recipe, you can easily prepare this rustic dish at home. Apply these small tips to perfect the dish and provide a wonderful culinary experience for your family. Wishing you success and delicious meals!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: How can I prevent the tofu from breaking apart while braising?
A1: Fry the tofu briefly before braising to create a protective outer layer.

Q2: Can I use a different type of pickled vegetable?
A2: Yes, you can use pickled cabbage or other pickled vegetables, but the flavor will be different.

Q3: How should I season the dish for the best taste?
A3: Adjust the amounts of sugar, fish sauce, and chili to suit your family’s taste.

Q4: How long should I braise the tofu for the best results?
A4: Braise for about 20-30 minutes to allow the tofu to fully absorb the flavors.

Q5: Is braised tofu with pickled mustard greens suitable for vegetarians?
A5: Yes, simply replace the fish sauce with soy sauce to make it vegetarian-friendly.