Delicious Braised Vegetables with Fermented Bean Curd – Easy Home Recipe

Braised vegetables with fermented bean curd is a light yet flavorful vegetarian dish, perfect for family meals or special occasions like the full moon or the first day of the lunar month. With a simple recipe and easily accessible ingredients, you can prepare this dish right at home. Let’s explore the secrets to making delicious, rich braised vegetables with fermented bean curd through this article!

Why You Can’t Miss Braised Vegetables with Fermented Bean Curd

Not only is it a familiar vegetarian dish, but braised vegetables with fermented bean curd also offer numerous nutritional benefits and a unique culinary experience:

• Rich in nutrients: Vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, boosting your health.
• Distinct flavor: The combination of the richness of fermented bean curd, the natural sweetness of vegetables, and a hint of chili creates an unforgettable dish.
• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can complete this dish without needing advanced cooking skills.
• Flexible ingredient choices: You can customize the types of vegetables according to your preferences or seasonal availability.

“Braised vegetables with fermented bean curd are not just a vegetarian dish but also a great option to change up your daily meals.” – Mai Anh, Culinary Expert

Braised vegetables with fermented bean curd dish

Ingredients Needed

To cook a delicious and authentic braised vegetables with fermented bean curd, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Vegetables:

• Eggplant: 2
• Sweet potato: 1
• White tofu: 2 pieces
• Straw mushrooms (or king oyster mushrooms): 200g
• Carrot: 1 (optional)

Seasonings:

• Fermented bean curd: 3 cubes (preferably rich and high-quality)
• Shallots: 2
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Chili: 1 (optional, to taste)
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
• Black pepper: a pinch

Ingredients for braised vegetables with fermented bean curd

Detailed Instructions for Making Braised Vegetables with Fermented Bean Curd

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Soak the eggplant in salted water for about 10 minutes to prevent discoloration.
2. Lightly fry the tofu until golden on all sides, then remove and drain the oil.
3. Clean the straw mushrooms and cut them in half if they are large.
4. Finely chop the shallots and garlic, and slice the chili.

Step 2: Marinate with fermented bean curd

1. Mash the fermented bean curd in a small bowl, mix well with sugar, soy sauce, and a little water.
2. Add the fermented bean curd mixture to the prepared vegetables and marinate for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors seep in.

Step 3: Braise the vegetables

1. Sauté the chopped shallots and garlic in a pot until fragrant.
2. Add the marinated vegetables and stir-fry briefly until they firm up.
3. Add water or fresh coconut water to just cover the vegetables.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and braise for about 15-20 minutes.
5. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding chili if you prefer a spicy flavor.

Step 4: Finish the dish

1. Turn off the heat and sprinkle black pepper on top to enhance the flavor.
2. Serve the braised vegetables with fermented bean curd hot with white rice.

“Simmering on low heat will help the vegetables absorb the flavors evenly and maintain their tenderness.” – Anh Tuan, Vegetarian Culinary Expert

Finished braised vegetables with fermented bean curd

Secrets to the Most Delicious Braised Vegetables with Fermented Bean Curd

• Choose quality fermented bean curd: Opt for light yellow, smooth, and mold-free fermented bean curd. Buy from reputable stores.
• Thorough preparation: Soak the eggplant in salted water to reduce bitterness and maintain color. Fry the tofu before braising to prevent it from breaking apart.
• Simmer gently: Adjust the heat to low to ensure the vegetables absorb the flavors evenly without breaking apart.
• Add coconut milk: For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of coconut milk while braising.

Variations of Braised Vegetables with Fermented Bean Curd

You can creatively modify the braised vegetables with fermented bean curd in various ways:

• Add coconut milk: For a uniquely rich flavor.
• Braise until dry: Suitable for those who prefer a more concentrated flavor.
• Use a variety of vegetables: Incorporate different types of mushrooms like shiitake or oyster mushrooms, or vegetables like pumpkin and broccoli.
• Vegan version: Omit shallots and garlic to suit strict vegetarians.

What to Eat with Braised Vegetables with Fermented Bean Curd?

Braised vegetables with fermented bean curd are typically served with:

• Hot white rice
• Fresh rice noodles
• Crusty bread
• White sticky rice

Braised vegetables with fermented bean curd served with rice

Conclusion

With the detailed recipe and small tips shared, we hope you now understand how to make delicious, authentic braised vegetables with fermented bean curd. This dish is not only a nutritious vegetarian option but also a great suggestion to change up your family meals. Give it a try and share your results with us!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to enjoy braised vegetables with fermented bean curd?

This dish is best enjoyed hot with white rice. You can also pair it with fresh rice noodles, crusty bread, or sticky rice.

2. How to store braised vegetables with fermented bean curd?

You can store this dish in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat before eating to preserve the flavor.

3. Is braised vegetables with fermented bean curd good for health?

This dish is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it very healthy. However, consume it in moderation due to the high salt content in fermented bean curd.

4. Can fermented bean curd be replaced with another ingredient?

Fermented bean curd is the key ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive flavor. If unavailable, you can use soy paste, though the taste will be different.

5. How to make the dish more visually appealing?

Adding a bit of annatto seed oil or coconut milk while braising will make the dish more colorful.

Wishing you success with your delicious braised vegetables with fermented bean curd!