Tofu in a Mild Oriental Sauce: A Flavorful Vegan Delight
Tofu in a Mild Oriental Sauce is a delightful and versatile dish that caters to those who prefer a milder flavor profile without sacrificing taste. This revised recipe, inspired by a store-bought version that was a bit too spicy, has been expertly tailored to create a savory experience that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With its vibrant blend of ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Soy/Tofu |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
| Calories | 201.6 per serving |
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients you will need to prepare this delectable dish, ensuring you have everything ready to create a vibrant, mild sauce that complements the tofu beautifully.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soft tofu | 1 block |
| Black bean garlic sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your meal is essential for those watching their dietary intake. Below is a detailed nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 201.6 |
| Total Fat | 16.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 235.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugars | 1.1 g |
| Protein | 9.6 g |
Instructions
Now that we have all the necessary ingredients at hand, let’s delve into the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the preparation of Tofu in a Mild Oriental Sauce. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for those looking to explore the culinary versatility of tofu.
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Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the soft tofu into 1/2 inch cubes. Ensure that the cubes are uniform in size to facilitate even cooking and to ensure that they soak up the sauce beautifully. Set the cubes aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the black bean garlic sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are thoroughly blended. This combination will create a rich, flavorful sauce that adds depth to the tofu. Once mixed, set this sauce mixture aside for later use.
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Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet or wok over high heat. Allow it to heat until it is hot, which should take about a minute or two. The high heat is essential for achieving that perfect sauté on the tofu, giving it a lovely texture.
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Add the Olive Oil: Pour in the olive oil and swirl it around to cover the bottom and sides of the skillet or wok. The oil not only prevents the tofu from sticking but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
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Cook the Sauce: Once the oil is heated, add the sauce mixture to the skillet. Allow the sauce to cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to release the flavors of the garlic and the black bean sauce, creating a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Incorporate the Tofu: Carefully add the cubed tofu to the skillet. Gently stir to coat the tofu with the sauce. Be cautious not to break the tofu cubes as you stir. Continue to cook until the tofu is heated through and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Serve: Once the tofu is hot and well-coated in the sauce, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Tofu in a Mild Oriental Sauce warm, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired for an extra touch.
Additional Tips
- Adjusting the Sauce: If you prefer a less saucy dish, feel free to reduce the quantities of the sauce ingredients. This way, you can customize the dish to your liking while still retaining its essential flavors.
- Adding Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider tossing in some sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. These can be added at the same time as the tofu to cook them through.
- Leftover Suggestions: This dish makes excellent leftovers. Store any remaining tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will maintain its flavor for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Tofu in a Mild Oriental Sauce is not only a fantastic vegan option but also a wonderful dish for those seeking a quick yet flavorful meal. The balance of savory flavors combined with the soft texture of the tofu creates a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please both tofu lovers and newcomers alike. Enjoy this delightful recipe that brings together simple ingredients to create a masterpiece in your kitchen. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of tofu in the world of home cooking.
Keywords
Tofu, vegan, savory, easy recipes, < 30 minutes, healthy meals
