tofu brewing recipe

How to Make Stuffed Tofu: A Comprehensive Guide

Stuffed tofu, or "dofu nao," is a beloved dish celebrated for its silky texture and savory fillings. Here’s a versatile guide to mastering it.

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Choose soft or firm tofu. For soft tofu, gently scoop a small cavity in the center with a spoon. For firm tofu, slice it into rectangular blocks and hollow out the middle, leaving a 0.5cm border to hold the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Classic fillings vary by region. A popular option is a mix of ground pork, chopped mushrooms, wood ear fungus, and scallions, seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper. For a vegetarian twist, use a blend of crumbled tofu, shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and tofu skin, seasoned with ginger and garlic.

Step 3: Stuff and Cook

Fill the tofu cavities, mounding the mixture slightly. Steam for 15–20 minutes until the filling is set. For a richer flavor, pan-fry the stuffed tofu until golden, then braise in a sauce of soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish with cilantro or sesame seeds. Pair with steamed rice or a light broth.

This adaptable dish balances tender tofu and flavorful fillings, offering endless creativity for home cooks.