braised tofu recipes

How to Make Braised Tofu: A Simple Guide

Braised tofu is a comforting, versatile dish that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started.

First, gather your ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu, 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 cup of water or vegetable broth, and chopped green onions for garnish.

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess water—this helps it stay firm during cooking. Cut it into 1-inch cubes. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and gently fry the tofu until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, sauté the garlic until fragrant, then return the tofu to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.

For extra richness, you can add a beaten egg or mushrooms during the last 5 minutes. Once the sauce thickens slightly, garnish with green onions and serve hot with rice.

This dish is endlessly customizable—try adding chili for spice or sesame oil for depth. Enjoy your homemade braised tofu!