Braised Tofu (with Mushrooms/Vegetables) Recipe

Firm tofu: A protein-rich, plant-based ingredient that absorbs flavors well and provides a satisfying texture.

Mushrooms: Adds an earthy flavor and meaty texture to the dish.

Mixed vegetables: A variety of vegetables that add color, nutrients, and different textures.

Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich sauce that enhances the overall flavor.

Oyster sauce: A thick, savory sauce made from oysters, adding depth and a slight sweetness.

Vegetable broth: A flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.

Cooking oil: Used to sauté the ingredients and prevent sticking.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Cornstarch: Mixed with water to create a slurry that thickens the sauce.

When browning the tofu, ensure the pieces are well-drained and patted dry before adding them to the skillet. This helps achieve a crispier texture. Use a non-stick pan and avoid overcrowding to allow even browning on all sides.

• firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firm texture and absorbs flavors well, making it a great alternative to tofu.

• sliced mushrooms - Substitute with eggplant: Eggplant has a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the dish, providing a similar mouthfeel to mushrooms.

• chopped mixed vegetables - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables are convenient and often contain a variety of vegetables that can easily replace fresh ones.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor.

• oyster sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce provides a similar sweet and savory flavor profile, making it a good substitute for oyster sauce.

• vegetable broth - Substitute with mushroom broth: Mushroom broth has a rich, earthy flavor that can enhance the taste of the dish similarly to vegetable broth.

• cooking oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dish.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor to fresh garlic and is a convenient alternative.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and can be used in the same way as cornstarch.

• Allow the braised tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled braised tofu into an airtight container. Make sure to use a container that seals well to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the dish within 3-4 days. This will keep the tofu and vegetables fresh and flavorful.
• For longer storage, place the braised tofu in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When freezing, ensure that the container or bag is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, which can affect the texture and taste of the tofu and mushrooms.
• To reheat, thaw the frozen braised tofu in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the dish's texture.
• Reheat the thawed braised tofu in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to restore moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the microwave. Place the braised tofu in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Enjoy your reheated braised tofu with freshly cooked rice or noodles for a quick and delicious meal.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover braised tofu with mushrooms and vegetables.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  5. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.
  6. Serve hot with fresh rice or noodles.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a tablespoon of vegetable broth or water to keep it moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
  6. Check if it’s heated through; if not, continue in 30-second intervals.
  7. Serve immediately.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the braised tofu with mushrooms and vegetables in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Bake for about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Check to ensure it’s heated through; if not, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of freshly steamed vegetables.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Set up your steamer and bring water to a boil.
  2. Place the leftovers in a heatproof dish that fits inside the steamer.
  3. Cover the dish with a lid or foil.
  4. Steam for about 10-15 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
  5. Carefully remove the dish from the steamer and serve hot.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the braised tofu with mushrooms and vegetables in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  4. Ensure it’s heated through before serving.

Enjoy your reheated braised tofu with mushrooms and vegetables!

• Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for sautéing garlic, browning tofu, and cooking vegetables evenly.

• Cooking spoon: Used for stirring ingredients and ensuring they cook evenly.

• Knife: Essential for chopping mixed vegetables and slicing mushrooms.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely chop and prepare tofu, vegetables, and mushrooms.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch accurately.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the vegetable broth and water for the cornstarch mixture.

• Garlic press: Handy for mincing garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the cornstarch with water before adding it to the skillet.

• Tongs: Useful for turning tofu cubes to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

• Serving dish: For presenting the finished braised tofu with mushrooms and vegetables.

• Rice cooker: Optional, but useful if serving the dish with rice.

• Pot: Optional, but useful if serving the dish with noodles.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic.

One-pan method: Cook everything in one large skillet to reduce cleanup time.

Quick sauce mix: Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and vegetable broth in a bowl before starting to cook.

High heat sear: Sear tofu on high heat to brown it faster.