fried tofu

How to Make Stuffed Tofu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Stuffed tofu, a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, delights with its tender tofu and savory filling. Here’s a simple guide to create this flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

- 1 block firm tofu (pressed to remove excess water)

- 200g ground pork (or chicken, shrimp for a vegetarian option)

- 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar

- 1 chopped green onion, 1 minced garlic clove

- 1 tbsp cornstarch (to bind the filling)

- Oil for frying, steaming, or broth for poaching

Steps:

1. Prepare the filling: Mix ground meat with soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, green onion, garlic, and cornstarch. Stir until well combined.

2. Hollow the tofu: Carefully cut each tofu cube in half, then scoop out a small cavity with a spoon.

3. Stuff the tofu: Fill each cavity with the meat mixture, pressing gently to secure.

4. Cook: Choose your method:

- Pan-fry: Heat oil in a pan, fry stuffed tofu until golden on both sides (3-4 mins per side).

- Steam: Place tofu in a steamer for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.

- Poach: Simmer in broth for 8-10 minutes for a softer texture.

5. Serve: Garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of chili oil. Enjoy with rice!

This versatile dish balances textures and umami, making it a comforting staple. Adjust fillings to your taste—mushrooms or water chestnuts add crunch for extra flair!