Cabbage Stewed with Tofu

This comforting tofu and cabbage dish is a delightful blend of flavors! Start by stir-frying onion, ginger, and dried chili in oil to create a fragrant base. Add chopped cabbage, followed by a mix of thirteen spices and savory sauces. Gently stir in tofu and simmer to let the flavors meld. The result is a rich, aromatic soup with tender cabbage and smooth tofu, perfect for serving over rice. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s simple to make and sure to please!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Cabbage

• Tofu

Additional Ingredients:

• Onion

• Ginger

• Dried Chili Pepper

Seasonings:

• Thirteen Spices

• Soy Sauce

• Dark Soy Sauce

• Oyster Sauce

• Salt

• Chicken Essence

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onion, ginger, and dried chili; stir-fry until fragrant.

2. Add chopped cabbage and stir-fry until it turns bright green.

3. Mix in thirteen spices, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce for flavor.

4. Gently stir in chopped tofu, add warm water to cover, and simmer.

5. Season with salt and chicken essence, simmer for 10 minutes until flavors meld.

6. Serve hot; enjoy the tender cabbage and smooth tofu with rice!

Tips:

1. Choose Soft Tofu: Use soft or northern tofu for a smoother texture that won’t break apart easily.

2. Salt Timing: Avoid adding salt too early when stir-frying cabbage, as it can cause the cabbage to release water and become soggy. Add it towards the end instead.

3. Warm Water: Always use warm water when adding to the pot. This helps the soup become thicker, whiter, and more fragrant.

4. Enhance Flavor: For a fresher taste, consider adding a small amount of dried shrimp or oyster sauce, but be careful not to overpower the delicate flavors of the cabbage and tofu.

FAQs:

Q1: What can I substitute for thirteen spices?
A1: If you don’t have thirteen spices, you can create a mix using common spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Alternatively, a pre-made spice blend like garam masala can add great flavor!

Q2: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A2: Definitely! While regular green cabbage is great, you can also use napa cabbage or even bok choy for a different texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!

Q3: What if I don’t want to use chicken essence?
A3: If you want to skip chicken essence, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or a little extra soy sauce for added flavor. It will still taste delicious without it!