Savory Braised Tofu with Fermented Bean Curd

Braised tofu with fermented bean curd is a humble yet incredibly appealing dish, beloved by many Vietnamese families. With the distinctive flavor of fermented bean curd and the smooth texture of tofu, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also highly nutritious. Let’s explore how to make authentic braised tofu with fermented bean curd with this guide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make braised tofu with fermented bean curd, you will need the following ingredients:

• Tofu: 300g (about 10.5 oz) (preferably pre-fried tofu for a richer texture)
• Red fermented bean curd: 2-3 cubes
• Fermented bean curd liquid: 2 tablespoons
• Green onions: 2 stalks
• Garlic: 3 cloves
• Fresh chili: 1-2 (adjust to taste)
• Seasonings: sugar, seasoning powder, soy sauce, cooking oil

Main ingredients for braised tofu: tofu cubes, red fermented bean curd, green onions, and garlic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
• Finely chop the garlic. Slice the green onions. Slice the chili.
• In a small bowl, mash the fermented bean curd with the fermented bean curd liquid. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar and stir well to create the sauce mixture.

Step 2: Braise the Tofu

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Sauté the chopped garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the prepared fermented bean curd sauce mixture to the pan. Stir well to release the aroma.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the pan. Gently toss to coat the tofu evenly with the sauce.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes. Occasionally turn the tofu pieces gently to ensure they absorb the flavors evenly.

Tofu cubes simmering in a pan with rich, red fermented bean curd sauce

Step 3: Finish the Dish

• Once the tofu has absorbed the flavors, sprinkle the sliced green onions and chili over the top for added color and flavor.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Turn off the heat and transfer to a serving plate.

Tips for the Perfect Braised Tofu

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pan during the simmering process.
• To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of ground black pepper or a splash of coconut milk.
• Using silken or soft tofu will result in a smoother texture, but be extra gentle when stirring to prevent it from breaking apart.

Conclusion

Making braised tofu with fermented bean curd isn’t overly complicated, but it requires attention to detail at each stage to achieve the perfect flavor. With simple and readily available ingredients, you can easily prepare this dish at home to treat your family. Give it a try and share your thoughts on this delightful braised tofu with fermented bean curd!

Finished plate of braised tofu with fermented bean curd, garnished with green onions and chili

References

1. Original recipe sourced from the Cookpad Vietnam community.
2. Cooking tips adapted from culinary experts on reputable websites.