A Shoal of Bean Curd, also known as “Doufu Yu” in Chinese, is a popular dish that features bean curd (tofu) slices resembling a shoal of fish swimming in a flavorful broth. This dish is commonly enjoyed in Chinese cuisine, particularly in Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors. Here’s the recipe along with its history, ingredients, instructions, and preparation time:
History:
The exact origins of the dish are not well-documented, but it is a traditional Chinese recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. It likely originated in Sichuan province, known for its innovative and spicy culinary traditions.
Recipe: A Shoal of Bean Curd
Ingredients:
- 300g firm tofu, cut into thin slices resembling fish
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2-3 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced
- 2-3 slices of ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Chopped scallions and cilantro for garnish
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ginger slices and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and Sichuan peppercorns. Sauté for a few minutes until the mushrooms are slightly softened.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add the soy sauce and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Carefully slide in the tofu slices, arranging them to resemble a shoal of fish.
- Allow the tofu to gently simmer in the broth for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Remove the pot from heat and drizzle sesame oil over the tofu.
- Ladle the tofu and broth into serving bowls, making sure each bowl has a good mix of tofu slices and broth.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro for added freshness and color.
- Serve the Shoal of Bean Curd hot as a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for A Shoal of Bean Curd is approximately 20-25 minutes, including the time for slicing the tofu, soaking the mushrooms, and cooking the dish.
Enjoy this delightful and artistic dish that combines both taste and presentation, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Sichuan cuisine.
Sure, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for the dish “A Shoal of Bean Curd”:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values):
(Per Serving)
- Calories: Around 150-180 kcal
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Sodium: 400-500mg
Health Information:
- Protein-Rich: Tofu, the main ingredient in this dish, is a good source of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
- Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. The use of vegetable oils and minimal frying contributes to its heart-healthy profile.
- Dietary Fiber: The dish contains dietary fiber, mainly from the tofu and vegetables. Dietary fiber supports digestion and can help with maintaining a healthy digestive system.
- Low Calories: The calorie content of this dish is moderate, making it a suitable option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Tofu provides essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins. These nutrients are important for bone health, energy production, and overall well-being.
- Low Cholesterol: As a plant-based dish, A Shoal of Bean Curd is naturally cholesterol-free. This is beneficial for heart health and maintaining healthy blood cholesterol levels.
Health Tips:
- Consider using low-sodium soy sauce or reducing the amount of soy sauce to control sodium intake.
- To enhance the nutritional profile, you can add a variety of colorful vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, carrots, and spinach.
Remember that the provided nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used in the recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s advisable to consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
