Comforting and Savory Tofu Perilla Porridge
How to Make Tofu Perilla Porridge: A Creamy and Nutty Delight for Any Time
Experiencing sudden stomach troubles can be quite upsetting. Just like me, who suffered from frequent trips to the restroom after enjoying some raw fish last night, those with sensitive stomachs or a history of food poisoning from raw foods might find this recipe particularly comforting. While store-bought porridge is an option, making it yourself with a personal touch can be incredibly rewarding and delicious. When you need something gentle and easy on your digestive system, rather than spicy or heavy meals, what should you eat? Vegetable porridge, bean sprout porridge, or pumpkin porridge are all great options. Today, however, I’m thrilled to share a recipe featuring the delicate texture of tofu and the unparalleled nutty flavor of perilla seeds: Tofu Perilla Porridge! Does it sound unfamiliar? This porridge is my go-to remedy for an upset stomach or when I’m not in the mood for regular rice. Even though I don’t make porridge often, when I do, I want to make it exceptionally tasty! Follow my simple steps, and you’ll be able to create this wonderful porridge with ease.
Ingredients- 1 cup soaked rice (approx. 200g)
- 1 block tofu (approx. 300g)
- 1/2 onion (approx. 50g)
- 1/8 head cabbage (approx. 50g)
- 1 stalk green onion
- 2 Tbsp perilla oil
- 2 Tbsp ground perilla seeds
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce (for seasoning)
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the vegetables. Finely mince the onion and cabbage into approximately 0.3cm x 0.3cm pieces. Chop the green onion into small pieces (about 0.3cm apart) for garnish.
Step 2
Take two-thirds of the tofu and mash it thoroughly using a fork or a mashing tool. Dice the remaining one-third of the tofu into approximately 1cm x 1cm cubes. Gently pat the diced tofu with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 3
Lightly grease a heated pan with a little oil. Add the diced tofu cubes and pan-fry them over medium-low heat until they are golden brown and slightly crisp. This step enhances the texture.
Step 4
Once the tofu is browned, transfer it to paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will help keep the porridge from being too greasy and ensure a cleaner taste.
Step 5
Now, prepare the pot for the porridge. Add 2 tablespoons of perilla oil to the pot and sauté the soaked rice for about 1-2 minutes. Stirring until the rice grains become translucent will result in a smoother porridge.
Step 6
Once the rice starts to turn translucent, add the minced onion and cabbage and sauté them together. Continue cooking until the onion releases its sweetness and the vegetables soften.
Step 7
When you can smell the sweet aroma of the onions, add the mashed tofu and stir gently to combine with the rice and vegetables. Be careful not to clump the tofu as you stir.
Step 8
Once the moisture from the tofu has mostly evaporated and the ingredients are well mixed, pour in 5 cups (approx. 1000ml) of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 9
As the porridge begins to bubble, reduce the heat to medium and continue to stir gently as it simmers. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the rice grains are fully softened and the porridge has thickened.
Step 10
When the porridge reaches a slightly thick consistency, add another 2 cups (approx. 400ml) of water and stir gently while simmering. You can adjust the amount of water here if you prefer a thinner, more liquid porridge.
Step 11
Once the porridge becomes slightly thick again, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 2 tablespoons of ground perilla seeds and 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce until well combined. Season with salt to taste, and let it simmer for another moment before removing from heat. Your delicious Tofu Perilla Porridge is ready!
Step 12
Ladle the warm porridge into a serving bowl. Garnish with the golden-brown pan-fried tofu pieces and the chopped green onions. Enjoy your nutritious and savory Tofu Perilla Porridge!
