Delicious Braised Tofu with Doubanjiang Recipe
Savory and Sweet Delight! How to Use Up Leftover Tofu: Braised Tofu with Doubanjiang
Do you have too much tofu left that’s nearing its expiration date? Don’t want to waste it but also don’t want to eat it plain? Don’t worry! Make this simple and delicious braised tofu with doubanjiang using this recipe. It’s perfect as a side dish for rice or as a tasty snack.
Main Ingredients- 1 block (approx. 300-400g) firm tofu
Sauce Ingredients- 2 Tbsp cooking oil (for frying tofu)
- 1.5 Tbsp Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)
- 0.7 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 0.7 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (or cooking wine)
- 4 Tbsp water
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 handful walnuts (chopped)
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame oil
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil (for frying tofu)
- 1.5 Tbsp Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)
- 0.7 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 0.7 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (or cooking wine)
- 4 Tbsp water
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 handful walnuts (chopped)
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame oil
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces, about 2cm thick (roughly 4-5cm square). Gently press the tofu with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this prevents oil splattering and helps achieve a crispier texture. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the tofu pieces in the pan. Fry the tofu, turning it gently, until all sides are golden brown and slightly crispy. This step enhances the tofu’s texture and allows it to absorb the sauce better.
Step 2
In a small bowl, combine the Doubanjiang (1.5 Tbsp), sugar (0.7 Tbsp), soy sauce (0.7 Tbsp), Mirin (2 Tbsp), water (4 Tbsp), minced garlic (0.5 Tbsp), and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined to create the sauce. (You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar amount.) Pour the prepared sauce into a pot or a deep pan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Once the sauce is bubbling, add the pre-fried tofu and walnuts (chopped walnuts will blend better with the sauce). Gently toss to coat the tofu evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Turn off the heat and stir in 0.5 Tbsp of sesame oil for aroma.
Step 3
Your delicious braised tofu with doubanjiang is ready! Transfer it to a serving dish. For an extra touch, garnish with finely chopped scallions or minced chili peppers for added color and flavor. This dish is fantastic served over warm rice or enjoyed as a delightful accompaniment to a cold beer. Enjoy transforming your leftover tofu into a wonderful meal!
