Delicious Braised Tofu: A Crispy-On-The-Outside, Soft-On-The-Inside Side Dish
How to Make Delicious Braised Tofu: The Secret to a Simple, Flavorful Sauce
Tofu often comes in 2-packs, making it an economical choice that I frequently buy. When I make this braised tofu, we often finish two blocks in one sitting – it’s that good! It’s a true rice thief. If you enjoy tofu dishes, be sure to prepare some 2-pack tofu and make this wonderful braised tofu. It’s perfect for kids’ meals and as a staple side dish for adults!
Main Ingredients
- 2 blocks firm tofu (600g)
- Pinch of salt
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1/2 onion
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
Flavorful Sauce Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp rice wine (mirin)
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 6 Tbsp water
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp rice wine (mirin)
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 6 Tbsp water
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Any type of tofu – for pan-frying, stewing, or all-purpose – works well. Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces, not too thick and not too thin. Thinly slice the onion.
Step 2
Lightly sprinkle salt on one side of the cut tofu for seasoning. Gently pat the surface of the tofu with paper towels to absorb excess moisture; this helps prevent oil splattering when frying.
Step 3
Heat a pan over medium-low heat and add 3 tablespoons of perilla oil and 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Pan-fry the tofu until golden brown. Using plenty of perilla oil truly enhances the nutty flavor of the tofu, making it exceptionally delicious. It might make you wonder, ‘Is this really tofu?’ because of its rich savory taste!
Step 4
Continue to pan-fry, flipping the tofu pieces over, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color on both sides. This will create a lovely texture.
Step 5
Since it can be difficult to fit two blocks of tofu in the pan at once, remove the browned tofu to a plate temporarily. Then, pan-fry the remaining tofu in the same manner until golden brown.
Step 6
In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon gochugaru, 2 tablespoons chopped green onion, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice wine, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 6 tablespoons water, and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds. Mix well to create a delicious sauce.
Step 7
Turn off the heat under the pan temporarily. Arrange the sliced onions attractively over the browned tofu. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the tofu and onions. Now, turn the heat back on to simmer and let it cook!
Step 8
Simmer on low heat for just 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to meld beautifully with the tofu and onions. Be careful not to overcook, as the tofu might break apart. Your delicious, moist braised tofu is ready!
