Savory Pan-Fried Tofu with Aromatic Wild Chive Sauce
A Perfect Pairing: Fragrant Wild Chives Meet Deliciously Fried Tofu
Wild chives, a beloved spring vegetable, perfectly complement savory soy sauce and rich soybean paste. When paired with simply pan-fried tofu, it transforms into a delightful side dish. If you’re feeling tired of cooking and wondering what to make, we highly recommend this super easy wild chive sauce with pan-fried tofu. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the fresh aroma of spring right to your table!
Main Ingredients- 300g firm tofu, for pan-frying
- 1 large egg
- 1 Tbsp salt (for seasoning tofu)
- 1/3 bunch fresh wild chives (approx. 30g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Slice the firm tofu (about 300g) into approximately 1.5cm thick pieces, suitable for pan-frying. Sprinkle about two pinches of salt evenly over each piece of tofu. This process helps to draw out excess moisture, making the tofu firmer and allowing it to absorb flavors better. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the salt to penetrate.
Step 2
Thoroughly wash the fresh wild chives, paying attention to the root ends. Gently press the root part with the back of a knife; this helps to release their aromatic fragrance. Finely chop the wild chives into about 1cm lengths. Their unique pungent yet refreshing aroma will infuse the sauce with wonderful flavor.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the wild chive sauce. In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup (100ml) of soy sauce, the chopped wild chives, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together well. If you like a bit of heat, add 1 teaspoon of gochugaru for a spicy kick. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the tofu; this prevents sticking and ensures a good sear. Let the pan heat up properly.
Step 5
Lightly pat the salted tofu pieces dry with a paper towel. In a separate bowl, whisk one egg with a pinch of salt to create an egg wash. Dip each piece of tofu into the egg wash, ensuring it’s evenly coated, and carefully place them onto the preheated pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 6
Pan-fry the tofu for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy. Flip the tofu pieces carefully to ensure even cooking on all sides. Cooking over medium-low heat is recommended to prevent the outside from burning before the inside is cooked through.
Step 7
Serve the perfectly pan-fried tofu hot, alongside the prepared wild chive sauce. You can either dip the tofu into the sauce or spoon the sauce directly over the tofu. Enjoy the harmonious blend of aromatic wild chives and savory, crispy tofu. Enjoy your meal!^^
