The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Silken Tofu: A Delicious and Addictive Side Dish

Tofu is an incredibly versatile plant-based protein that has gained immense popularity among vegetarians and vegans alike. With its ability to take on various flavors and textures, tofu can be transformed into a myriad of delicious dishes. Today, we're letting you in on a secret weapon to elevate your meal - a mouth-watering, tofu braise that will have you hooked from the very first bite.

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Preparation
15 minutes
Cooking
30 minutes
Serves
2-3 people

Are you looking for a delicious and wholesome dish to accompany your family meal? Look no further than this mouthwatering and incredibly simple braised tofu recipe! With easily accessible ingredients and a quick and easy cooking method, this braised tofu dish is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.

1Ingredients for Braised Tofu

  • 2 pieces firm tofu
  • 1 handful peanuts, roasted and crushed
  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
  • 3 shallots, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
  • 150ml coconut water
  • Seasonings: salt, sugar, vegan fish sauce, chili sauce, and red food coloring (optional)

Ingredients for Braised Tofu

2How to Make Braised Tofu

Step 1 Prepare the Ingredients

First, prepare a bowl of diluted salt water and soak the tofu for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften the tofu and extend its freshness. After soaking, rinse and drain the tofu. Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces, then halve them lengthwise.

For the garnishes, pluck and discard any wilted rau răm (Vietnamese coriander) leaves. Rinse the remaining leaves and soak them in diluted salt water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside. Crush the roasted peanuts slightly, and finely chop the shallots and chili.

Preparing the Ingredients

Step 2 Fry the Tofu

Heat a pan with oil over medium heat and fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and drain on a paper towel.

Frying the Tofu

Step 3 Braise the Tofu

Using the same pan, leave a little oil and sauté the shallots and garlic until fragrant. Add the fried tofu and pour in 150ml of coconut water. Braise the tofu over medium heat for about 5 minutes.

After 5 minutes, season the tofu with 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vegan fish sauce, 2 teaspoons of chili sauce, and a pinch of red food coloring (if using). Continue braising over low heat until the sauce thickens.

Braising the Tofu

Step 4 Serving

Finally, sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the braised tofu, and it’s ready to be served!

Serving Suggestion

3Enjoy!

The unique blend of sweet coconut water, soft tofu, and a hint of chili creates a delightful flavor profile. The tofu absorbs the flavors beautifully, resulting in a soft and creamy texture on the inside and a golden brown exterior. Serve it with Vietnamese coriander and hot steamed rice for a truly satisfying meal.

Enjoying the Dish

So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy this delicious braised tofu with coconut water!

Source: Youtube – Huỳnh Phương Món ngon tại nhà

Frequently asked questions

Silken tofu is a soft, creamy form of tofu with a smooth, delicate texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is often used in desserts, smoothies, and as a substitute for dairy products.

Silken tofu is made with a different coagulant than regular tofu, giving it a softer, smoother texture. It also has a higher water content, which contributes to its creamy consistency.

Silken tofu is a good source of protein, calcium, and iron. It is also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and nutritious food choice. Additionally, its smooth texture and mild flavor make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Preparing silken tofu is simple. You can eat it straight out of the package, or gently blend it to create a creamy base for desserts and sauces. It can also be cubed and added to soups or stir-fries, although its soft texture means it won’t hold its shape as well as firmer tofu varieties.

Yes, you can freeze silken tofu, although it may change the texture slightly. Frozen and thawed silken tofu will have a more crumbly texture, but it can still be used in recipes that call for blending or puréeing.

Silken tofu is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine, such as in Japanese miso soup or Chinese mapo tofu. You can also use it to make desserts like tofu cheesecake or chocolate mousse, or blend it into smoothies for a protein boost.

You can find silken tofu in most Asian grocery stores, as well as some larger supermarkets. It is usually sold in vacuum-sealed packages and does not require refrigeration until after it has been opened.

Unopened silken tofu can be stored at room temperature for several months. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. You can also freeze silken tofu to extend its shelf life.
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