Hearty and Delicious Steamed Tofu and Bean Sprouts
A Budget-Friendly Meal Saver: Steamed Tofu and Bean Sprouts Recipe for Tough Economic Times
In these high-cost times, are you looking for a delicious meal without breaking the bank? We’ve crafted a wonderful dish using affordable tofu and wholesome bean sprouts. This recipe offers a satisfying meal that’s both economical and incredibly tasty!
Main Ingredients- Firm Tofu (for pan-frying) 480g (about 1 block)
- Crisp Bean Sprouts 500g
- Sweet Onion 1/2 medium
- Aromatic Green Onion 1/2 stalk
- Cornstarch 1 tsp
- Anchovy-Kelp Broth (for richness) 140ml
- Oil (for cooking) a little
Flavorful Seasoning- Fine Salt a pinch (for tofu seasoning)
- Black Pepper a pinch (for tofu seasoning)
- Toasted Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp
- Sesame Seeds 1 Tbsp
- Savory Doenjang (Korean soybean paste) 3 Tbsp
- Spicy and Sweet Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 1 Tbsp
- Fiery Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 2 Tbsp
- Umami-rich Jin-ganjang (Korean soy sauce for soup) 1/2 Tbsp
- Traditional Jip-ganjang (Korean traditional soy sauce) 1 tsp
- Sweet Oligodang (corn syrup) 1 tsp
- Flavorful Fish Sauce (Tuna extract) 1 tsp
- Aromatic Minced Garlic 3 Tbsp
- Pungent Minced Ginger 1/2 tsp
- Nutty and Fragrant Perilla Oil 50ml
- Fine Salt a pinch (for tofu seasoning)
- Black Pepper a pinch (for tofu seasoning)
- Toasted Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp
- Sesame Seeds 1 Tbsp
- Savory Doenjang (Korean soybean paste) 3 Tbsp
- Spicy and Sweet Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 1 Tbsp
- Fiery Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 2 Tbsp
- Umami-rich Jin-ganjang (Korean soy sauce for soup) 1/2 Tbsp
- Traditional Jip-ganjang (Korean traditional soy sauce) 1 tsp
- Sweet Oligodang (corn syrup) 1 tsp
- Flavorful Fish Sauce (Tuna extract) 1 tsp
- Aromatic Minced Garlic 3 Tbsp
- Pungent Minced Ginger 1/2 tsp
- Nutty and Fragrant Perilla Oil 50ml
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, cut the firm tofu into bite-sized squares. This will make it easier to handle and cook evenly.
Step 2
Lightly season the cut tofu with fine salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the tofu, enhancing its taste.
Step 3
Gently pat the marinated tofu dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear.
Step 4
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a generous amount of cooking oil. Pan-fry the seasoned tofu pieces until they are golden brown on both sides. This step adds a delightful texture and depth of flavor.
Step 5
Now, let’s prepare the delicious sauce! In a bowl, combine doenjang (3 Tbsp), gochujang (1 Tbsp), gochugaru (2 Tbsp), jin-ganjang (1/2 Tbsp), jip-ganjang (1 tsp), oligodang (1 tsp), and tuna extract (1 tsp). Add the minced garlic (3 Tbsp), minced ginger (1/2 tsp), and the fragrant perilla oil (50ml). Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Step 6
In a small bowl, mix the anchovy-kelp broth (40ml) with cornstarch (1 tsp). Stir well until the cornstarch is completely dissolved, creating a slurry. This will be used to thicken the sauce later.
Step 7
Wash the fresh bean sprouts, removing any root ends, and drain them well. Having them clean and ready is key for a fresh taste.
Step 8
Thinly slice the onion and cut the green onion into diagonal pieces. These will soften and absorb the flavors beautifully.
Step 9
In a wide pan or pot, create a base layer with the sliced onions and green onions.
Step 10
Pile the washed bean sprouts on top of the onions and green onions. Pour in the remaining anchovy-kelp broth (100ml) and add 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce. Cover the pan tightly with a lid and steam over medium heat until the bean sprouts are tender yet still have a slight crispness (about 5-7 minutes, depending on your heat).
Step 11
Once steam starts to escape, continue to steam for another 3-4 minutes. When the bean sprouts are cooked, carefully open the lid and gently stir to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed among the sprouts and vegetables.
Step 12
Gently add the pan-fried tofu pieces into the pan. Add about 1 more tablespoon of the prepared sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more sauce if needed; the saltiness and spice level are up to your preference!
Step 13
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly. This will thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy sheen and cohesive texture. Finish by drizzling with toasted sesame oil and sprinkling with sesame seeds.
Step 14
Transfer the beautifully prepared steamed tofu and bean sprouts to a serving dish. Your hearty and flavorful meal is now ready to be enjoyed!
