Spicy and Sweet Braised Tofu
Spicy and sweet braised tofu that can effortlessly finish a bowl of rice, even without other side dishes.
📝 Editor's Notes
Hello everyone!
Today, I'm sharing a recipe for spicy and sweet braised tofu, famously known as a 'rice thief' because it makes you finish a whole bowl of rice without needing any other side dishes.
This appealing dish combines the mild flavor of tofu with a spicy and sweet sauce, creating a taste that everyone, young and old, will love.
I'll guide you through making this easy and delicious dish at home.
Shall we make this nutritious braised tofu together?
🛒 Ingredient Tips
It's best to use firm or extra-firm tofu for pan-frying.
It will hold its shape well during cooking.
Prepare fresh green onions, onions, and Cheongyang chili peppers (청양고추) as their sweetness and aroma will further enhance the flavor of the braised tofu.
Using allulose instead of sugar in the seasoning can help reduce sugar intake, making it healthier.
Be sure to prepare sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds, as they add a nutty aroma at the end.
🔄 Substitution Guide
If the gochugaru (고춧가루) is too spicy for your preference, try using fine gochugaru (고춧가루) or reducing the amount.
For children, you can omit the gochugaru (고춧가루) and make a sweet, soy sauce-based braised tofu.
If you don't have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1/2 tbsp sugar.
You can also add other vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots, which will taste delicious.
Using anchovy-kelp broth instead of water can add a deeper umami flavor, so keep that in mind.
Oligosaccharide or rice syrup can be used instead of allulose.
🥘 Ingredients
👨🍳 Cooking Points
The most crucial points in this recipe are 'removing moisture from the tofu' and 'pan-frying until golden brown'.
Thoroughly patting dry the surface of the tofu with a paper towel prevents it from crumbling and helps maintain its shape when pan-frying.
It's also important to pan-fry the tofu until golden brown on both sides to firm up its exterior.
This prevents the tofu from breaking apart during the braising process and gives it a chewy texture.
When preparing the seasoning sauce, mix all ingredients well to ensure they are fully combined.
Finally, add the sesame oil after turning off the heat to preserve its nutty aroma.
👨🍳 Directions
Cut 500g of tofu into thick slices.
Pat dry the surface of the sliced tofu thoroughly with a paper towel.
In a bowl, combine 3 tbsp gochugaru (고춧가루), 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp mirin, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp minced garlic, 1 tbsp sugar (or allulose), and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well to create the seasoning sauce, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a hot pan. Add the dried tofu slices and pan-fry until golden brown on both sides.
Once the tofu is golden brown, add an appropriate amount of green onion, onion, and Cheongyang chili pepper (청양고추), and stir-fry together.
Pour in 200 ml of water and the prepared seasoning sauce. Braise over medium heat until the sauce has reduced and thickened.
Drizzle with 1 tbsp fragrant sesame oil and sprinkle with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds.
Your spicy and sweet braised tofu is now complete.
💡 Tips
It is recommended to use firm or extra-firm tofu for pan-frying.
Thoroughly patting dry the surface of the tofu helps maintain its shape when pan-frying without deep-frying.
Frying the tofu until its surface is firm prevents it from breaking apart during the braising process.
Adding the seasoning sauce with water prevents it from burning and allows it to braise nicely.
Add sesame oil after turning off the heat to preserve its nutty aroma.
📦 Storage & Reuse
Store any leftover braised tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
Before serving, gently reheat it in the microwave or warm it up again in a pan to enjoy its original flavor.
However, freezing tofu can alter its texture, so it's best to refrigerate it and consume it promptly.
🥢 Who This Is For
This spicy and sweet braised tofu is excellent as a side dish for rice.
Served hot over rice, you won't need any other side dishes.
It also makes a great accompaniment for drinks and is perfect for serving to guests.
It's especially a dish that even children who dislike vegetables will enjoy.
🔥 Nutrition Info
Tofu is rich in protein and highly digestible, often referred to as 'beef from the field'.
It's also abundant in minerals like calcium and iron, which can contribute to bone health and prevent anemia.
Furthermore, its isoflavone content is known to be particularly beneficial for women's health.
Onions and green onions are rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, and the capsaicin in Cheongyang chili peppers (청양고추) helps boost metabolism.
This nutritionally balanced braised tofu will provide a hearty and healthy meal.
However, it's advisable to moderate the amount of soy sauce to manage sodium intake.
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