No Bake Tofu Sauce

This vibrant "No Bake Tofu Sauce" is a quick, flavorful condiment that brings authentic Chinese home-style taste to your table. Featuring firm tofu cubes simmered in a fragrant blend of five-spice powder, ginger, and garlic, this sauce offers a rich umami depth without the need for frying. The addition of fresh bean shoots, crisp carrot matchsticks, and green beans provides a delightful textural contrast, making every spoonful interesting. It is naturally vegan and pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or as a topping for dumplings. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this versatile sauce is a reliable addition to your everyday cooking repertoire.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing

Cuisine: Chinese

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 107.7

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant "No Bake Tofu Sauce" is a quick, flavorful condiment that brings authentic Chinese home-style taste to your table. Featuring firm tofu cubes simmered in a fragrant blend of five-spice powder, ginger, and garlic, this sauce offers a rich umami depth without the need for frying. The addition of fresh bean shoots, crisp carrot matchsticks, and green beans provides a delightful textural contrast, making every spoonful interesting. It is naturally vegan and pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or as a topping for dumplings. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this versatile sauce is a reliable addition to your everyday cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

400 g firm tofu, cut into 2cm cubes
2 teaspoons vegetable or peanut oil
2 teaspoons chinese five-spice powder
150 g green beans, halved diagonally
1 cm piece ginger, cut into matchsticks
2 cloves garlic, sliced
1 carrot, cut into matchsticks
2 cups bean shoots
2 tablespoons salt-reduced soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
3 cups water

Directions

1
In a large saucepan or wok, heat the vegetable or peanut oil over medium heat.
2
Add the sliced garlic, ginger matchsticks, and five-spice powder. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the spices.
3
Pour in the water and bring to a gentle simmer.
4
Add the tofu cubes, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors and the liquid to reduce slightly.
5
Add the green beans and carrot matchsticks. Continue to simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6
Stir in the bean shoots and cook for 1 more minute until just warmed through.
7
Remove from heat and stir in the toasted sesame oil. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4 servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 107.7kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4.5g7%
Saturated Fat 1.0g5%
Cholesterol 1.2mg1%
Sodium 460.1mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 14.8g5%
Dietary Fiber 4.7g19%
Sugars 7.3g
Protein 4.4g9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Substitutions: You can use silken tofu for a softer texture, but firm tofu holds up better to simmering. Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Variations: Add chili flakes or fresh chili slices for a spicy kick. For extra protein, add sliced mushrooms or edamame.

Tip: Ensure the tofu is well-drained before adding to the sauce to prevent diluting the flavors.

Keywords: tofu, sauce, chinese, vegan, five-spice, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, bean shoots, green beans, carrot, quick meal, noodle topping, rice accompaniment, aromatic, umami, simmered, healthy, plant-based, condiment

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/no-bake-tofu-sauce-10/