Hearty and Delicious Fried Tofu Pouches
Super Simple Recipe for Filling and Nutritious Fried Tofu Pouches!
I’ve made these convenient fried tofu pouches that are perfect to enjoy even on the go, like in the car! They are satisfying and make a great breakfast option.
Main Ingredients- Square fried tofu (Aburaage)
- Minced beef (or pork)
- Carrot (finely diced)
- Burdock root (finely diced)
- Broccoli (finely diced)
- Pickled radish (Takuan, finely diced)
- Scallions (chopped)
- Cooked rice (warm)
Seasoning- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Salt
- Pepper
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Salt
- Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Square fried tofu (aburaage) usually has three sealed sides and one opening. To create a pocket for the rice filling, carefully make an opening by cutting slightly into the side opposite the natural opening with a knife. Be careful not to cut too deep!
Step 2
Place the prepared fried tofu in a pot and add enough water to cover it. Add a little soy sauce and simmer until the tofu turns a nice color. This will also soften the tofu.
Step 3
At this stage, add a small amount of sugar for a hint of sweetness. Be cautious not to add too much, as it might cause the tofu to burn. Simmering the cut ‘flap’ along with the tofu will enhance the flavor.
Step 4
Once simmered in soy sauce and sugar, let the fried tofu cool slightly. Then, firmly squeeze out the liquid by hand and set aside. Briefly blanch the chopped scallions in boiling water, rinse them in cold water, and drain well. These will be used to tie the tofu pouches.
Step 5
Now, let’s prepare the star of the fried tofu pouches: the delicious filling! You can customize the ingredients based on what you have in your refrigerator or your preferences. I’m using finely diced carrots, burdock root, beef, broccoli, and pickled radish. I’ll also add the finely chopped ‘flap’ from the tofu. Ensure all ingredients are diced small enough for a filling.
Step 6
In a pan, stir-fry the minced beef (or pork) that has been seasoned with salt and pepper first. Cook until the meat is crumbly and cooked through.
Step 7
Add all the remaining prepared ingredients (carrots, burdock root, broccoli, pickled radish, and the tofu flap) to the pan and stir-fry together. Finally, add the warm cooked rice and mix everything well. Season simply with salt for a clean taste.
Step 8
This fried rice mixture is delicious enough to eat on its own! It feels like a complete dish even before filling the tofu.
Step 9
Gently open the ‘door’ of the softened fried tofu, being careful not to tear it.
Step 10
Carefully fill each tofu pouch with the prepared fried rice. Consider the size of your family’s mouths or how much they like to eat to determine the right amount. Avoid overfilling, as it might cause the pouch to burst.
Step 11
To secure the filling, tie the opening of the tofu pouch with the blanched scallions. This prevents the rice from spilling out and maintains a neat appearance. Your convenient and hearty fried tofu pouches are now complete! Enjoy your delicious creation.
