Broccoli Tofu Salad: A Simple Recipe for Health and Taste
Broccoli Tofu Salad: A Simple Recipe for Health and Taste
Broccoli Tofu Salad, How to Blanch Broccoli, Washing Broccoli, Broccoli Recipes, Tofu Recipes, Healthy Side Dish
Introducing ‘Broccoli Tofu Salad,’ a dish that combines the freshness of broccoli with the tenderness of tofu, offering both health benefits and delicious taste. Rich in Vitamin C and known for its anti-cancer properties, broccoli, paired with protein-packed tofu, can help boost immunity and support digestive health. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a simple yet nutritious side dish. We will guide you through every step, from thoroughly washing and blanching the broccoli to preparing the tofu and creating a flavorful dressing. It’s also a great option for ‘kids’ meals’ for picky eaters or a light ‘salad.’ (Measuring spoon reference: 1 Tbsp = 15ml)
Main Ingredients- 1 head of broccoli
- 1 block (160g) of firm tofu
Seasoning & Other Ingredients- 2 Tbsp vinegar (for washing)
- 1 Tbsp tuna extract (or fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp vinegar (for washing)
- 1 Tbsp tuna extract (or fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s learn how to wash broccoli thoroughly. In a bowl, add 2 tablespoons of vinegar and submerge the entire head of broccoli. You can use kitchen tongs to press it down and ensure it stays underwater. Soaking in vinegar water for about 20 minutes effectively removes hidden dirt and pesticide residues from the broccoli.
Step 2
After 20 minutes, rinse the broccoli under running water 2-3 times, gently shaking it. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces. Don’t discard the nutritious stems! Peel the tough outer skin with a knife and cut them into manageable pieces to blanch along with the florets.
Step 3
Now it’s time to blanch the broccoli. Bring 1 liter of water to a boil in a pot with 0.5 tablespoon of coarse salt. Once boiling, add the prepared broccoli stems first, followed by the florets.
Step 4
Broccoli is rich in water-soluble vitamins, which are sensitive to water and heat. Blanching quickly minimizes nutrient loss. Blanch for about 1 minute. If you’re unsure about the timing, you can take out a piece, rinse it in cold water, and taste it to check for doneness.
Step 5
Let’s blanch the tofu as well. Add the block of tofu to the boiling water and blanch for about 2 minutes until it’s warm through. (Photo for this step was missed.) After draining, place the tofu in a clean cloth and gently mash it while squeezing out excess water. You can use the back of a knife to mash, but using a cloth will result in a smoother texture.
Step 6
Combine the drained broccoli and mashed tofu in a bowl.
Step 7
Now, let’s add the seasonings. Add 1 tablespoon of tuna extract, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. If you don’t have tuna extract, you can substitute it with 0.5 tablespoon of soy sauce (guk-ganjang).
Step 8
The seasoning is simple, isn’t it? Gently mix everything together with your hands, and your delicious Broccoli Tofu Salad is ready! It’s an easy and quick healthy side dish, so it’s great to make frequently.
Step 9
Serve the finished Broccoli Tofu Salad attractively on a plate. (I forgot to sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top, but since they were mixed in during seasoning, the nutty flavor is already rich.)
Step 10
The creamy texture of the tofu, combined with the nutty flavor from the sesame seeds and oil, creates a truly delicious salad. Even children who are usually reluctant to eat vegetables will likely enjoy this Broccoli Tofu Salad, making it highly recommended as a ‘kid-friendly dish’.
Step 11
While broccoli is tasty dipped in spicy chili sauce, this salad recipe allows you to create two wonderful dishes from a single head of broccoli, making it very versatile. When you’re wondering ‘What should I eat today?’, consider using this Broccoli Tofu Salad as a simple and delicious option, either as a side dish or a light salad. I might buy another head of broccoli from the market to make it as a salad. Enjoy your meal!
