· Method · 4 min read
Spicy and Flavorful Home-Cooked Tofu: A Simple Recipe for Delightful Dining
This spicy tofu dish features tender tofu simmered in a savory broth with onion, ginger, garlic, and dried chili peppers. The tofu is blanched, stir-fried with seasonings, and cooked in a flavorful bean paste and soy sauce base. Thickened with cornstarch, it makes a delicious accompaniment to rice.
Ingredients:
• Tofu
• Onion
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Dried Chili Pepper
• Sichuan Peppercorns
• Bean Paste
• Cooking Oil
• Soy Sauce
• Sugar
• Salt
• Cornstarch
Production Steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
• Cut the tofu into pieces and blanch in boiling water. This helps to make the tofu more tender.
Step 2: Sauté Seasonings
• Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add onion, ginger, garlic, dried chili pepper, and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry until fragrant.
• Add fermented bean paste and continue to stir-fry until fragrant, allowing the bean paste to release its flavor and the oil to turn red.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
• Pour enough water to cover the tofu into the pan. Add the blanched tofu. Season with a little soy sauce, sugar, and salt, adjusting according to taste. For a darker soup, add dark soy sauce as desired.
Step 4: Cook the Tofu
• Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors. Gradually add cornstarch water to thicken the soup, doing so in batches for a uniform consistency.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
• Once the soup thickens, it’s ready to serve. It’s best to leave the residue in the dish for added flavor. You can stir lightly with chopsticks when eating. If you prefer, replace the residue with chili powder and Sichuan pepper powder. Feel free to add side dishes before serving.
Tips:
1. Choose Firm Tofu:
Use firm or extra-firm tofu for better texture during cooking. Silken tofu may break apart easily.
2. Blanching for Tenderness:
Blanching the tofu not only enhances its tenderness but also helps in absorbing flavors from the sauce.
3. Control Oil Temperature:
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the seasonings to release their flavors effectively without burning them.
4. Stir-Fry in Batches:
If making a larger quantity, consider stir-frying the ingredients in batches to maintain even cooking and flavor distribution.
5. Adjust Seasonings to Taste:
Taste the soup base as you go and adjust the seasonings like soy sauce and sugar based on your preference for saltiness and sweetness.
6. Thicken Gradually:
Add cornstarch water gradually while stirring to achieve your desired soup thickness without lumps.
7. Garnish for Presentation:
Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
