Healthy Braised Tofu & Baby Corn Recipe

Are you looking for a light yet nutritious vegetarian dish for the whole family? Braised tofu with baby corn is the perfect suggestion for you! With the natural sweetness of baby corn blended with soft, smooth tofu that absorbs the seasonings perfectly, this dish is not only delicious but also rich in nutritional value. Let’s discover how to cook authentic braised tofu with baby corn through the article below!

Finished dish of braised tofu with baby corn

Why is Braised Tofu with Baby Corn Popular?

Braised tofu with baby corn is not just a simple vegetarian dish; it also offers numerous health benefits. Tofu provides abundant plant-based protein, supports heart health, and aids in effective weight management. Meanwhile, baby corn is rich in vitamins, fiber, and minerals, helping to enhance digestion and boost the immune system. The combination of these two ingredients creates a dish that is both nutritious and easy to make.

Ingredients Needed

• Soft Tofu: 3 blocks (choose soft, smooth type)
• Baby Corn: 200g (fresh, young corn preferred)
• Scallions: 2 stalks
• Fresh Chili: 1 (optional, if you like spicy)
• Seasonings: Soy sauce, sugar, cooking oil, vegetarian seasoning powder, ground pepper, shallots, garlic

Ingredients for braised tofu with baby corn: tofu, baby corn, scallions, chili, seasonings

How to Prepare the Ingredients

• Tofu: Rinse gently, cut into bite-sized cubes. You can lightly fry the tofu first to make it firmer for braising.
• Baby Corn: Rinse well, cut into short, bite-sized pieces.
• Scallions: Rinse well, chop finely.
• Chili: Remove seeds, slice thinly.
• Shallots, Garlic: Peel and mince finely.

Steps to Make Braised Tofu with Baby Corn

Step 1: Marinate the Tofu

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

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Braise Tofu and Baby Corn

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

Step 4: Seasoning

Add about 100ml of water (just enough to submerge the tofu). Season with an additional 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, ½ teaspoon of vegetarian seasoning powder, and sliced chili (if using). Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Finish

When the sauce has thickened slightly, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle the chopped scallions on top and turn off the heat.

“Lightly frying the tofu before braising will make the dish richer and more appealing.” – Food Expert Nguyen Thi Huong

Close-up of tender braised tofu and baby corn in savory sauce

Tips for a More Appealing Dish

• Lightly frying the tofu enhances its flavor and helps it maintain its shape during braising.
• Simmering over low heat allows the tofu and baby corn to absorb the seasonings evenly.
• Add straw mushrooms or carrots to enrich the dish in color and nutrition.
• A little coconut caramel sauce (nước màu dừa) will give the dish an attractive color.

Creative Variations for Braised Tofu with Baby Corn

You can get creative by adding other ingredients such as:

• Straw Mushrooms: Enhances flavor and nutritional value.
• Carrots: Adds beautiful color and supplements Vitamin A.
• Lemongrass Chili: Suitable for those who love a spicy, pungent taste.

Enjoying the Perfect Meal

Braised tofu with baby corn is best enjoyed hot with white rice and boiled vegetables. The sweet, delicate flavor of baby corn combined with the soft, rich tofu soaked in seasoning will surely make your meal complete.

“Braised tofu with baby corn is an ideal dish for vegetarians or those aiming to lose weight, as it provides ample protein, fiber, and vitamins.” – Nutritionist Le Van Duc

Conclusion

With a simple recipe and easy-to-find ingredients, braised tofu with baby corn is a wonderful vegetarian dish for every family. Try it now and share your results with us! We wish you success and delicious meals!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I substitute white tofu with pre-fried tofu?
Yes, you can substitute. However, pre-fried tofu will have a richer, slightly chewier texture.

2. If I don’t eat spicy food, can I omit the chili?
Absolutely, you can omit the chili or reduce the amount according to your preference.

3. Can I use regular sweet corn instead of baby corn?
Yes, you can substitute, but regular sweet corn will be sweeter than baby corn and have a different texture.

4. How long should the tofu be braised?
Braise for about 15-20 minutes until the tofu and baby corn are tender and have absorbed the seasonings.

5. How long can this dish be stored in the refrigerator?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2-3 days.

6. Can I add coconut caramel sauce (nước màu)?
Yes, you can add it to give the dish a more appealing color.