Steamed Bean Curd with Soy Sauce Recipe
Description:
This light and healthy side dish is a perfect addition to any meal. With its delicate flavors and easy preparation, this steamed bean curd (silken tofu) is a dish that can be whipped up in just a few minutes. The tofu is gently steamed and then topped with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other flavorful ingredients. It’s not only quick to make but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various cuisines, particularly Asian and Chinese-inspired dishes. The best part? It’s low in cholesterol and packed with protein, making it a nutritious option for any time of day.
Total Time: 17 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soft silken tofu | 200g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Ginger | 1 inch piece |
| Shallot | 1 |
| Canola oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Light soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Instant chicken bouillon granules | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Canola oil (for frying) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Scallion | 1 (chopped) |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup |
| Red chile | 1 (optional) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 151.4 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1g |
| Cholesterol | 0.1mg |
| Sodium | 1031.6mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.5g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1.5g |
| Protein | 5.1g |
Instructions
-
Steam the tofu:
Place the soft silken tofu in your steamer or rice cooker. Steam the tofu for about 6 to 7 minutes on gentle heat. This allows the tofu to warm through while preserving its delicate texture. Once done, remove the tofu from the steamer and set it aside. -
Prepare the aromatics:
In a wok or large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium heat. Add the ginger, garlic, and shallot. Stir-fry them until they become crisp and golden, filling your kitchen with an aromatic fragrance. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. -
Remove the aromatics:
Once the garlic, ginger, and shallots are crispy and golden, remove them from the wok, but leave the oil in the pan. Set the fried aromatics aside for later use. -
Make the sauce:
Into the same wok, add the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, instant chicken bouillon granules, sugar, and water. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, reducing slightly until it thickens. This should take around 3 to 4 minutes. -
Assemble the dish:
Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the steamed tofu. Be sure to cover the tofu evenly with the savory sauce. -
Top with aromatics and garnish:
Finally, top the tofu with the crispy garlic, ginger, and shallots that you set aside earlier. Garnish with freshly chopped scallions, cilantro, and red chile (if using). The garnish not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. -
Serve and enjoy:
Serve the tofu immediately while it’s still hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal with stir-fried vegetables and other protein-rich dishes.
Tips:
- Rice Cooker: If you have a rice cooker, use it to steam the tofu while cooking rice at the same time for added convenience. It saves time and makes the process even easier.
- Customize the Sauce: You can adjust the balance of soy sauce and oyster sauce depending on your preference for saltiness and richness. If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add more chili or a dash of chili oil to the sauce.
- Add Veggies: You can easily turn this side dish into a more substantial meal by adding steamed vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or mushrooms alongside the tofu.
Recipe Ratings
Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Number of Reviews: 2
This simple yet flavorful Steamed Bean Curd with Soy Sauce is a great way to incorporate tofu into your meals without overwhelming your palate. The warm, savory sauce complements the soft, silky tofu perfectly, making it an ideal side dish that’s both light and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or as part of a larger spread, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
