Savory Tofu Pudding Recipe (Douhua - Savory)

Soft tofu: Provides the base for the pudding, offering a smooth and silky texture.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the dish.

Oyster sauce: Contributes a rich, savory taste that enhances the overall flavor.

Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and depth to the sauce.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a pungent and aromatic flavor.

Green onion: Chopped green onion provides a fresh and slightly sharp contrast.

Chili oil: Optional, but adds a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat in their dishes.

When steaming the soft tofu, make sure to use a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or a heatproof plate to prevent the tofu from sticking. This will help maintain the delicate texture and shape of the tofu.

• soft tofu - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu has a similar texture and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.

• soft tofu - Substitute with egg custard: For a non-vegan option, egg custard can provide a similar creamy texture.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos is a soy-free option that provides a slightly sweeter but comparable taste.

• oyster sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce offers a similar sweet and savory profile, though it is slightly thicker.

• oyster sauce - Substitute with mushroom sauce: Mushroom sauce is a vegetarian alternative that mimics the umami flavor of oyster sauce.

• sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used in a pinch, though it lacks the nutty flavor of sesame oil.

• sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a similar nutty flavor and can be used as a substitute.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, though it is less pungent.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish.

• green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• green onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks can provide a similar flavor profile, though they should be finely chopped.

• chili oil - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can provide a similar heat and flavor, though it is thicker.

• chili oil - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add heat and a bit of texture to the dish.

• Allow the soft tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.
• Transfer the tofu pudding to an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to prevent any contamination.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tofu pudding will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you wish to freeze the tofu pudding, place it in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
• Label the container with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the tofu pudding in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Reheat the tofu pudding gently in a steamer or microwave. If using a microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
• Refresh the dish by adding a bit more soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil if needed. Garnish with fresh green onion and a drizzle of chili oil to enhance the flavors.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the savory tofu pudding in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly.
  4. Stir gently if needed, and continue heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Transfer the savory tofu pudding to a small saucepan.
  2. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking and to maintain moisture.
  3. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  4. Once warmed through, transfer to a serving dish and enjoy.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Place the savory tofu pudding in a heatproof dish that fits inside your steamer.
  2. Fill the steamer with water and bring it to a gentle boil.
  3. Place the dish in the steamer, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
  4. Carefully remove the dish from the steamer and serve immediately.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the savory tofu pudding in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  5. Once heated through, remove from the oven and serve.

• Steamer: Used to steam the soft tofu for 10 minutes, ensuring it is heated through without breaking apart.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic to create the savory sauce.

• Knife: Used to mince the garlic and chop the green onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for mincing garlic and chopping green onion.

• Spoon: Used to mix the sauce ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Serving dish: Used to place the steamed tofu and pour the sauce over it before garnishing.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil accurately.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Use a microwave: Instead of steaming, microwave the soft tofu for 2-3 minutes to save time.

Pre-chop garnishes: Chop the green onion and prepare the chili oil in advance to streamline the process.

Batch cook: Make a larger quantity of the sauce and store it for future use.