Hearty Tofu Braised with Savory Meat Filling
Juicy and Flavorful Tofu Braised with Meat: Perfect for Special Occasions!
Experience the delightful harmony of pan-fried tofu, golden on the outside and tender within, paired with a rich and savory meat filling. This sweet and salty braised tofu is a wonderful side dish for children and an impressive addition to any dinner party table. Make it with care and enjoy a delicious meal with your whole family!
Main Ingredients- 1 block firm tofu (approx. 900g)
- Approx. 200g ground pork
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooking oil, as needed
Meat Filling Seasoning- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 pinches ground ginger
- A dash of black pepper
Braising Sauce- 2 cups water
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 green onion
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 pinches ground ginger
- A dash of black pepper
Braising Sauce- 2 cups water
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare one block of firm tofu. Cut the tofu into slices about 1cm thick, then cut these slices into bite-sized pieces. Cutting them beforehand helps prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
Step 2
On one side of each bite-sized tofu piece, make a shallow cut. This slit will create space to insert the meat filling and prevent the tofu from crumbling. Aim for a depth where a chopstick can easily fit.
Step 3
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on both sides. This step not only firms up the tofu but also adds a delicious nutty flavor.
Step 4
While the tofu is frying, prepare the meat filling. In a bowl, combine the ground pork with the meat filling seasoning ingredients: 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, 3 pinches of ground ginger, and a dash of black pepper. Mix well. Let this mixture marinate while the tofu cools slightly, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5
Carefully stuff the seasoned ground pork mixture into the slits you made in the pan-fried tofu. Handle the tofu gently to avoid breaking it. The generous filling makes this dish extra satisfying.
Step 6
Now, let’s prepare the braising sauce. In a pot or pan, combine the braising sauce ingredients: 2 cups water, 4 Tbsp soy sauce, 2 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, and 1 Tbsp sesame oil. Stir well. Once the sauce comes to a boil, gently place the meat-filled tofu into the pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 7
Once the tofu has cooked for a bit, add the diagonally sliced green onion. While it’s simmering, spoon some of the braising liquid over the tofu to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer slowly and gently; this slow cooking is key to developing the rich flavor.
Step 8
When the sauce has reduced to a thick glaze and all the flavors have melded beautifully, your braised tofu is ready! Serve it hot, perhaps over a bowl of steamed rice. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
