Hearty Pan-Fried Tofu Braise
Hearty Pan-Fried Tofu Braise
How to Make Flavorful Pan-Fried Tofu: A Generous Side Dish for One!
Looking for a twist on your usual braised tofu? Try this pan-fried tofu! It’s the same tofu, but it feels so much more substantial and satisfying! Perfect for a generous portion all to yourself.
Main Ingredients- 1 block firm tofu (using a large block will make it even more generous)
- 1/2 stalk green onion (sliced diagonally)
- 1/4 onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 red chili pepper (thinly sliced, great for garnish)
Braising Sauce Ingredients- 3 Tbsp soy sauce (approx. 45ml)
- 1 Tbsp Korean soy sauce for soup (approx. 15ml)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (adds sweetness and shine)
- 1/2 Tbsp corn syrup or oligosaccharide (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for a touch of spice)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (enhances flavor)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for nutty aroma)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 150ml water (approx. 1 cup)
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce (approx. 45ml)
- 1 Tbsp Korean soy sauce for soup (approx. 15ml)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (adds sweetness and shine)
- 1/2 Tbsp corn syrup or oligosaccharide (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for a touch of spice)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (enhances flavor)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for nutty aroma)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 150ml water (approx. 1 cup)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Measurement Guide: ‘Tbsp’ refers to a tablespoon (Korean standard eating spoon), and ‘tsp’ refers to a teaspoon (Korean standard tea spoon). First, prepare all ingredients according to the recipe. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
Step 2
Thinly slice the onion. Slice the green onion and red chili pepper diagonally. The red chili pepper adds a lovely color, so it’s great to include.
Step 3
The key to this recipe is to slice the tofu into large, thick pieces, like stacked rice cakes! Cut them into about 2-3cm thickness to give it that ‘pan’ feel. This way, it looks much more substantial when braised.
Step 4
In a small bowl, combine all the braising sauce ingredients and mix well to prepare it in advance. This makes cooking smoother without any last-minute fuss.
Step 5
Heat a pan with a generous amount of cooking oil. Place the thickly sliced tofu and pan-fry it until golden brown on both sides. Frying the surface slightly until firm helps the tofu hold its shape and prevents the sauce from being absorbed too quickly.
Step 6
Once the tofu is golden brown on both sides, carefully drain any excess oil from the pan. Pour the prepared braising sauce over the tofu. Keep the heat on medium at this stage.
Step 7
After pouring the sauce, arrange the sliced onions, green onions, and red chili peppers attractively over the tofu. The colorful vegetables make it look incredibly appetizing!
Step 8
Now, cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Let it simmer gently. Covering the pan allows the moisture from the vegetables and the sauce to meld together, infusing the tofu with deep flavor.
Step 9
Occasionally, use a spoon to scoop up the sauce from the bottom of the pan and pour it evenly over the tofu. This ensures the top of the tofu is also well-coated with flavor.
Step 10
I simmered mine covered on low heat for about 7 minutes. Cooking time can vary depending on your stove and pan. If the sauce seems to be reducing too much or the vegetables need more cooking, add a tiny splash of water to the empty parts of the pan to keep it moist.
Step 11
Voila! Your delicious pan-fried tofu braise is ready. Look at that beautiful sheen – it’s truly mouthwatering!
Step 12
Serve this braised tofu generously over freshly steamed rice. Each bite, with its savory and sweet flavors, will make your rice taste like pure honey. It’s a perfect, hearty meal!
