Savory Braised Tofu in Soy Sauce: A Water-Free Delight
A Rich Soy Sauce Braised Tofu Recipe Made Without Water
Braised tofu is a special dish that relies not on added water, but on the harmonious blend of ingredients and seasonings, carefully cooked with precise heat control. Today, we’re making ‘Soy Sauce Braised Tofu’ using a flavorful soy sauce-based sauce. The tofu becomes slightly crisp on the outside, wonderfully soft inside, and coated in a savory-sweet glaze that makes it an irresistible side dish for rice. Here’s a simple, nutritious, and satisfying recipe you can easily make at home.
Main Tofu Braising Ingredients- 1 block Firm Tofu (approx. 300g)
- 1 medium Onion
- A small bunch of Chives (approx. 20g)
- 2 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or sesame oil)
Flavorful Soy Sauce Braising Sauce- 2 Tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Plum Extract (for sweetness and shine)
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for mild spiciness)
- 1 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds (for nutty flavor and garnish)
- 2 Tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Plum Extract (for sweetness and shine)
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for mild spiciness)
- 1 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds (for nutty flavor and garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Introducing ‘Savory Braised Tofu in Soy Sauce’. This recipe’s unique characteristic is its deep flavor, achieved by braising without adding water, relying solely on the natural moisture from the tofu and onions.
Step 2
Carefully pat dry one block of firm tofu using paper towels. Removing excess water is crucial for preventing the tofu from breaking apart and ensuring a delicious texture. Then, slice the tofu into thick pieces, about 1.5cm (0.6 inches) thick, and cut each piece into 6 long portions, preparing them for braising.
Step 3
While the tofu is searing, let’s prepare the flavor-packed sauce. In a small bowl, combine 2 Tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, 1 Tbsp plum extract, 1/2 Tbsp sugar, 1/2 Tbsp gochugaru, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Mix everything well until evenly blended. The sugar can be adjusted according to your sweetness preference.
Step 4
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 Tbsp of perilla oil. Place the prepared tofu pieces in the skillet. Sear both sides until they are golden brown and slightly crispy, as if you are frying them. This searing step enhances the tofu’s texture and adds a wonderful nutty aroma.
Step 5
Once the tofu pieces are nicely browned on both sides, reduce the heat to low. Gently spoon the prepared soy sauce mixture evenly over the seared tofu. Be careful not to let the sauce burn; ensure it coats the tofu beautifully.
Step 6
Slice one medium onion into thin strips and chop the chives to your desired size. Now, cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently over low heat. Braise for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the sauce has thoroughly permeated the tofu. If desired, you can spoon some of the braising sauce over the tofu again during this process.
Step 7
Once the braising is complete, carefully arrange the tofu on a serving plate. Layer the tofu pieces attractively, and garnish with the cooked onions and chives, along with any remaining sauce from the pan.
Step 8
Serve this deeply flavorful ‘Soy Sauce Braised Tofu’ over warm rice for an incredibly delicious meal. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying dish for your next meal!
