Soaked-in-Flavor Braised Tofu
[Braised Tofu] Savory Goodness That Penetrates Deep!
This recipe is from Lee Bo-eun, as introduced on Alto-ran. The aroma of the ingredients fills your mouth with every bite, making this side dish feel like a gourmet meal served for guests. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Main Ingredients- 1 block firm tofu (300g)
- 4 Tbsp cooking oil
- 2 dried shiitake mushrooms (for broth)
- 1/2 stalk green onion
- 1 red chili pepper
- 1 green chili pepper
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds or ground sesame
Tofu Marination- 2 Tbsp soup soy sauce
Braised Tofu Sauce- 1/2 cup dried shiitake mushroom broth (100ml)
- 2 Tbsp medium-grind Korean chili powder
- 4 Tbsp regular soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp plum extract
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp soup soy sauce
Braised Tofu Sauce- 1/2 cup dried shiitake mushroom broth (100ml)
- 2 Tbsp medium-grind Korean chili powder
- 4 Tbsp regular soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp plum extract
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the tofu. Take one block (300g) of firm tofu. Cut it in half vertically down the middle, then cut each half horizontally again, resulting in a total of 4 pieces per half-block, so 8 pieces in total. This step helps the tofu absorb the sauce more effectively.
Step 2
With the cut side of the tofu facing upwards, brush 2 tablespoons of soup soy sauce evenly over the surface. Let it marinate for 10 minutes to allow the savory flavor to penetrate deep into the tofu.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the delicious sauce for the braised tofu! In a bowl, combine 100ml of broth from rehydrated dried shiitake mushrooms, 2 tablespoons of medium-grind Korean chili powder, 4 tablespoons of regular soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of sweet plum extract, and 2 tablespoons of savory sesame oil. Mix them well.
Step 4
It’s time to pan-fry the tofu. Heat a pan over high heat, add 4 tablespoons of cooking oil, then reduce the heat to medium. The pan should be sufficiently hot before adding the tofu.
Step 5
Carefully place the marinated tofu pieces into the hot pan with the cut side facing up. Fry each side for about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes, until the surface turns a nice golden brown. Flip them over and fry the other side for the same amount of time. Pan-frying until golden brown enhances both the texture and flavor.
Step 6
Once both sides of the tofu are golden brown, reduce the heat to low. Now, spoon the prepared sauce over the tofu pieces, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate into the tofu.
Step 7
Thinly slice the rehydrated shiitake mushrooms. Slice the green onion diagonally. Also, slice the red and green chili peppers diagonally. Arrange the sliced shiitake mushrooms, green onion, red chili peppers, and green chili peppers attractively over the tofu in the pan. Cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for at least 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly reduced and the ingredients are well-infused with flavor. Periodically spoon the sauce over the tofu as it simmers for even better results.
Step 8
Once everything is well braised, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds or ground sesame over the top to finish. Serve hot with a bowl of steamed rice and enjoy! This dish is impressive enough to be served for any meal.
