Spicy and Savory Braised Pork and Tofu
Spicy and Savory Braised Pork and Tofu
Braised Pork and Tofu Recipe, Pork Neck Braised Tofu, Spicy Side Dish Recipe
Introducing a must-try side dish that will have you devouring two bowls of rice in no time: Braised Pork and Tofu, featuring tender tofu and chewy pork neck simmered in a delicious spicy and savory sauce! This dish offers a perfect harmony between the rich flavor of the pork and the delicate tenderness of the tofu, making it a hit with the whole family. It’s also a fantastic way to ensure adequate protein intake. Especially appealing is its lean profile, making it less greasy and perfect for utilizing any leftover pork neck from your freezer. This recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful meal that will elevate your dining table.
Main Ingredients- Pork neck 100g
- Tofu 1 block (approx. 300g)
- Green onion 1/2 stalk
- Onion 1/2
- Red chili pepper 1
- Cooking oil 1 Tbsp
- Salt to taste
Pork Marinade- Soy sauce 1 Tbsp
- Mirin 1 Tbsp
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
Braising Sauce- Soy sauce 2 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 1 Tbsp
- Sugar 2 Tbsp
- Water 200ml
- Soy sauce 1 Tbsp
- Mirin 1 Tbsp
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
Braising Sauce- Soy sauce 2 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 1 Tbsp
- Sugar 2 Tbsp
- Water 200ml
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The first step to a delicious braised pork and tofu is marinating the pork! Marinating helps eliminate any gamey odor and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in much more tender and flavorful meat. In a bowl, combine the pork neck with 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp mirin, and 1 Tbsp minced garlic. Mix well with a spoon and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Step 2
Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3cm thick). Lightly sprinkle salt over the cut tofu and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, which helps the tofu maintain its shape and absorb the braising sauce better when cooked. You can drain it on a sieve or gently press it with paper towels to remove moisture.
Step 3
Let’s prepare the vegetables! Slice the green onion and red chili pepper diagonally into large pieces. Slice the onion into strips. These vegetables will add flavor and texture when simmered with the sauce.
Step 4
Now, let’s make the braising sauce that will define the dish’s flavor. In a large bowl, pour in 200ml of water. Add 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and 2 Tbsp sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. Your delicious braising sauce is ready!
Step 5
Prepare a wide and deep frying pan. Add 1 Tbsp of cooking oil and heat over medium-low heat. Add the marinated pork neck to the pan and sear it until golden brown on both sides. This searing step helps to lock in the juices and enhance the meat’s flavor.
Step 6
Once the pork is nicely browned, gently push the seared tofu to the sides of the pan. Arrange the marinated pork neck in the center of the pan in a single layer, ensuring it doesn’t overlap. This arrangement helps the sauce to distribute and cook evenly.
Step 7
Pour the prepared braising sauce slowly over the tofu and pork neck. Increase the heat to medium and bring the sauce to a simmer. Once it’s bubbling, add the sliced onion, green onion, and red chili pepper evenly over the ingredients. The aromatic vegetables will further enhance the deliciousness.
Step 8
Simmer over medium heat until the sauce is reduced by about half. The sauce will thicken slightly, allowing the flavors to infuse into the ingredients. Once the sauce has reduced to your liking, lower the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.
Step 9
Continue to simmer over low heat with the lid on until the sauce is mostly absorbed and has a thick, glaze-like consistency. This slow simmering ensures that the flavors fully penetrate all the ingredients, creating a wonderfully rich dish. Turn off the heat, plate the braised pork and tofu, and serve hot with steamed rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
