Red-Cooked Bean Curd, Family-Style

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Servings: 2 cups Difficulty: Advanced
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Savory, braised tofu with a rich, umami-packed hoisin and soy glaze, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Red-Cooked Bean Curd~ Family-Style recipe image

This Red-Cooked Bean Curd is a savory, comforting dish that transforms simple firm tofu into a rich, umami-packed centerpiece. Unlike the misleading “dessert” label, this is a classic Chinese-style braised preparation where the tofu absorbs a deep, glossy sauce made from hoisin, soy sauces, and rice wine. The texture is key: the tofu is first deep-fried to create a golden, crisp exterior that holds up to the braise, then simmered until tender and flavorful. Aromatics like garlic and scallions add freshness, while a splash of sesame oil at the end ties the flavors together. It’s an excellent vegetarian option or a hearty side dish served over steamed rice. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want a satisfying, home-style meal that feels special without requiring hard-to-find ingredients.

Red-Cooked Bean Curd~ Family-Style recipe image
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Red-Cooked Bean Curd, Family-Style

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 2 cups Calories: 568.5

Description

This Red-Cooked Bean Curd is a savory, comforting dish that transforms simple firm tofu into a rich, umami-packed centerpiece. Unlike the misleading "dessert" label, this is a classic Chinese-style braised preparation where the tofu absorbs a deep, glossy sauce made from hoisin, soy sauces, and rice wine. The texture is key: the tofu is first deep-fried to create a golden, crisp exterior that holds up to the braise, then simmered until tender and flavorful. Aromatics like garlic and scallions add freshness, while a splash of sesame oil at the end ties the flavors together. It’s an excellent vegetarian option or a hearty side dish served over steamed rice. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want a satisfying, home-style meal that feels special without requiring hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cut the firm bean curd into 1-by-3-by-1-inch rectangular pieces.
  2. Lay the tofu pieces on paper towels and let them drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  3. Cut the scallions into 3-inch lengths at a slight diagonal angle.
  4. Heat a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat until hot.
  5. Add the 1/2 cup of peanut oil and heat until shimmering.
  6. Carefully add the tofu pieces and fry on all sides until golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Remove the fried tofu and drain well on paper towels.
  8. Pour out and discard the used frying oil.
  9. Wipe the wok clean with a paper towel, return to heat, and add the 1 1/2 tablespoons of fresh peanut oil.
  10. Add the scallions and chopped garlic to the hot oil and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  11. Add the rice wine, hoisin sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and chicken stock to the wok.
  12. Bring the sauce mixture to a boil.
  13. Gently return the fried tofu pieces to the wok, ensuring they are submerged or coated in the sauce.
  14. Cook over high heat for 10 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the sauce.
  15. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame oil.
  16. Gently toss the tofu to coat evenly with the sesame oil.
  17. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 cups

Amount Per Serving
Calories 568.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 47.1g73%
Saturated Fat 9.3g47%
Cholesterol 53.4mg18%
Sodium 655.6mg28%
Total Carbohydrate 16.5g6%
Dietary Fiber 3.4g14%
Sugars 6.6g
Protein 19.8g40%

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

Keywords: red-cooked, bean curd, tofu, braised, hoisin, soy sauce, garlic, scallions, asian, chinese, vegetarian, umami, comfort food, stir-fry, family-style, firm tofu, sesame oil, rice wine, peanut oil
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