Tofu and Wild Chive Salad Tower
Tofu and Wild Chive Salad Tower
Tofu and Wild Chive Salad Tower: A Special Recipe Embracing Spring’s Fragrance
I spotted some fresh wild chives at the spring market and decided to create a special recipe combining them with nutritious tofu. This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for impressing your husband! Elevate your side dish game with this creative 곰취나물 (gomchwipul) recipe. ^^
Main Ingredients- 1 bag of wild chives (gomchwipul)
- 1 block of tofu (firm or regular)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, trim any bruised or wilted leaves from the wild chives and wash them thoroughly under running water. Remove any tough stems to ensure a tender bite.
Step 2
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the prepared wild chives and blanch for about 4 minutes until tender. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become mushy.
Step 3
Immediately transfer the blanched wild chives into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible with your hands. Place the drained chives in a large bowl. Excess water can dilute the dressing.
Step 4
To the bowl of wild chives, add 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 3 Tbsp soy sauce, and 2 Tbsp salt. Gently mix with your hands, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed without mashing the chives. Finally, drizzle in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil for a rich, nutty finish and toss lightly once more.
Step 5
Set the seasoned wild chives aside. While delicious as is, we’re going to create a special presentation.
Step 6
Wrap the block of tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Press down firmly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Removing excess water will help the tofu hold its shape and enhance its flavor.
Step 7
Keep the pressed tofu nearby. Now, let’s build an impressive tower using the tofu and wild chives.
Step 8
Here’s a fun trick for creating the tower! I used a cut-off paper cup as a mold. You can use any suitable cup or mold you have at hand. This mold will help shape the layers beautifully.
Step 9
First, gently pack the seasoned wild chives into the paper cup mold, pressing them down firmly. Packing them tightly will ensure the tower is stable.
Step 10
Next, place a layer of the pressed tofu on top of the chives. Cut the tofu into appropriate sizes to fit the mold and press down gently. Continue layering by adding more wild chives, then tofu, and so on.
Step 11
After layering about three times, sprinkle sesame seeds on the very top for an extra nutty flavor and visual appeal. Carefully lift the paper cup mold straight up to reveal your stunning tower! This is the perfect finishing touch.
Step 12
Ta-da! Your beautiful Tofu and Wild Chive Salad Tower is complete!
Step 13
You can present even a simple side dish in such a special way. My husband was so impressed, he said, ‘Honey, you’re amazing!’ Hearing that compliment made my day. 🙂
Step 14
While you can enjoy the tower as is, I recommend gently breaking it apart before eating to fully experience the blended flavors of the salad.
Step 15
Break down the tower and mix the wild chives and tofu together. This transforms it into the familiar and delicious Tofu and Wild Chive Salad we all love. Enjoy the delightful combination of spring’s freshness and the creaminess of tofu! ^^
