A Flavorful Braised Tofu with Scallions and Carrots: A Perfect Rice Companion
Savory and Slightly Spicy Braised Tofu with Green Onions and Carrots for an Irresistible Flavor
This wonderfully savory and mildly spicy braised tofu is an excellent side dish that perfectly complements steamed rice. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a favorite for all ages.
Main Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu (firm or stir-fry tofu works best)
- 1 stalk scallion (green onion), cut into long pieces, mainly the white part
- 1/4 carrot, thinly julienned
- Cooking oil, as needed (for pan-frying the tofu)
Savory Braising Sauce
- 0.5 Tbsp soy sauce (or 1 Tbsp soup soy sauce)
- 1 Tbsp rice wine (mirin) (helps remove gamey odors and adds umami)
- 3 Tbsp water (adjust as needed, don’t cover the ingredients completely)
- 1 tsp oligosaccharide (for a subtle sweetness)
- 1 tsp minced garlic (freshly minced garlic can also be used)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for a nutty finish!)
- 0.5 Tbsp soy sauce (or 1 Tbsp soup soy sauce)
- 1 Tbsp rice wine (mirin) (helps remove gamey odors and adds umami)
- 3 Tbsp water (adjust as needed, don’t cover the ingredients completely)
- 1 tsp oligosaccharide (for a subtle sweetness)
- 1 tsp minced garlic (freshly minced garlic can also be used)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for a nutty finish!)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Slice the tofu into thick, bite-sized pieces, about 1.5-2cm thick. Thinly julienne the carrots and cut the scallions into long pieces. This ensures the sauce flavors penetrate evenly.
Step 2
Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough cooking oil to coat the bottom. Pan-fry the tofu slices until golden brown and slightly firm on both sides. This step prevents the tofu from breaking apart and enhances its texture.
Step 3
In a separate pan (or the same one, wiped clean), heat 1 Tbsp of cooking oil over low heat. Add the sliced scallions and sauté until fragrant, creating a flavorful scallion oil. Cook until the sweet aroma of the scallions infuses the oil.
Step 4
Once the scallion oil is ready, add the julienned carrots and minced garlic. Sauté together until the carrots become slightly translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 5
Now, add all the braising sauce ingredients: soy sauce, rice wine, oligosaccharide, and water. Stir well to combine. Once the sauce begins to simmer, reduce the heat slightly.
Step 6
Carefully place the pan-fried tofu slices into the simmering sauce. Cook over medium-low heat, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the tofu. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
Step 7
To ensure the tofu absorbs the sauce evenly, gently turn the pieces occasionally or spoon the sauce over them. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Finally, drizzle in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and finish.
Step 8
Enjoy your delicious, slightly spicy, and savory braised tofu! It’s a fantastic side dish that will make your rice disappear. A true crowd-pleaser! ♡
