This Easy Braised Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying dish inspired by Asian cuisine. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines the rich umami flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with tender tofu. It’s a simple, quick-to-make recipe that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. Whether you’re a tofu lover or looking for more plant-based meal ideas, this dish is sure to impress!

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and sliced
• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or sesame)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sugar (or maple syrup)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tsp water (optional, for thickening)
• 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
2. Sear the tofu: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu slices and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir well to combine.
4. Combine: Return the tofu to the skillet, gently tossing to coat each piece in the sauce. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
5. Optional thickening: Stir in the cornstarch slurry if a thicker sauce is desired, cooking for another 1–2 minutes.
6. Garnish and serve: Top with sliced scallions and sesame seeds. Serve warm with rice or noodles.

Nutrients

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 780 mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Easy Braised Tofu recipe is a standout for several reasons. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring only a few pantry staples and minimal cooking skills. Even novice cooks can whip up this dish with confidence, making it a go-to for anyone looking for quick and satisfying meals. The dish is highly adaptable. While this recipe calls for firm tofu, you can use other varieties like extra-firm or medium-firm tofu depending on your preference for texture. It’s a nutritious option for those who are lactose-intolerant, following a plant-based diet, or simply aiming to eat healthier.

Nutritional Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is a nutritional powerhouse, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. It is made from soybeans, a complete source of protein that contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes tofu an ideal substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan diets. In addition to being high in protein, tofu is low in calories and contains minimal saturated fat. It is also rich in essential nutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Consuming tofu regularly can support bone health, improve heart health, and help in maintaining muscle mass.

Tips for Cooking Braised Tofu

1. Press the Tofu: To achieve the best texture, always press the tofu to remove excess water. This allows the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce more effectively.
2. Use High-Quality Soy Sauce: The flavor of the soy sauce is critical in this dish. Opt for a high-quality soy sauce to ensure a deep, rich taste.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: The sugar or maple syrup balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
4. Experiment with Add-Ins: While the recipe is delicious as-is, you can add ingredients like chili flakes for heat, sesame oil for nuttiness, or fresh vegetables for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Braised Tofu is a versatile dish that pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a hearty, wholesome meal. It’s also excellent with stir-fried noodles or a light vegetable stir-fry. For a complete Asian-inspired feast, serve it alongside miso soup, pickled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad. Adding roasted or steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas as sides will elevate the dish with vibrant flavors and textures, making it perfect for dinner parties or meal prep. Don’t forget a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra flavor and crunch!

Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few variations you can experiment with to keep things interesting:

• Spicy Braised Tofu: Add chili garlic paste or fresh chopped chilies for a fiery kick.
• Sweet and Sour Tofu: Include a splash of rice vinegar and a touch of pineapple juice to create a tangy, sweet, and sour flavor.
• Peanut-Glazed Tofu: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a creamy, nutty twist on the classic recipe.
• Vegetable-Loaded Tofu: Add diced bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for added crunch and color.

Who Will Love This Dish?

This Easy Braised Tofu recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold, savory flavors and is looking for a healthy, plant-based option. It’s a hit among vegetarians, vegans, and those exploring meatless meals, as well as busy individuals seeking a quick yet satisfying dinner. Even tofu skeptics will appreciate the rich umami glaze that makes this dish irresistible. Families, meal preppers, and lovers of Asian-inspired cuisine will all find this recipe a delightful addition to their weekly meal rotation.

Fun Fact

Tofu, the star ingredient in this dish, dates back over 2,000 years to ancient China, where it was first created during the Han Dynasty. Its high protein content and versatility have made it a staple in Asian cuisines and a favorite worldwide for plant-based meals!

Conclusion

The Easy Braised Tofu recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and cooking techniques can create a dish that is both nutritious and full of flavor. With its rich umami glaze and tender tofu, this dish is a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Its adaptability and nutritional benefits make it a must-try for anyone exploring plant-based or health-conscious eating. So, grab your tofu block, whip up this dish, and enjoy a flavorful journey into the world of braised tofu!