19 Vietnamese Stuffed Tofu Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!

Preparing the Tofu

Cutting and Hollowing Out the Tofu

To start off, you'll need to choose the right kind of tofu for this dish. Firm tofu works best as it holds its shape when cooked and has a mild flavor that complements the filling. Cut the tofu into rectangular pieces, about 2 inches thick, and then gently scoop out the center to create a hollow space for the filling. Make sure to leave a thin layer of tofu on the sides and bottom to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Pan-frying the Tofu

Before filling the tofu, it's important to pan-fry it first to give it a nice golden crust. Heat up some oil in a pan and cook the tofu pieces until they are lightly browned on all sides. This step not only adds a crispy texture to the tofu but also helps to seal in the moisture and prevent it from becoming too soft when cooked with the filling.

Preparing the Filling

Meat and Vegetable Mixture

The filling for Vietnamese stuffed tofu is typically made with a combination of ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings. Pork is the most commonly used meat, but you can also use chicken, beef, or even shrimp. The vegetables usually include carrots, mushrooms, and water chestnuts , which add crunch and texture to the filling. Everything is chopped finely and mixed together with seasonings such as soy sauce, fish sauce, and black pepper.

Stuffing the Tofu

Once the filling is prepared, use a spoon to carefully stuff it into the hollowed-out tofu pieces. Make sure to press the filling down gently to fill any gaps and create a compact and even filling. Don't overstuff the tofu, as it may cause the filling to spill out during cooking.

Cooking the Stuffed Tofu

Steaming Method

The traditional way of cooking Vietnamese stuffed tofu is by steaming it. Place the stuffed tofu pieces on a steaming tray and steam for about 15 minutes until the filling is fully cooked and the tofu is tender. This method allows the tofu to absorb the flavors of the filling and creates a delicious and moist dish.

Frying Method

For a crispier and more indulgent version, you can also fry the stuffed tofu in hot oil until it turns golden brown. This method gives the tofu a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and moist. Make sure to drain the excess oil on a paper towel before serving.

Serving and Enjoying

Vietnamese stuffed tofu is best served with a side of steamed rice and a bowl of nuoc cham , a tangy and savory dipping sauce. The combination of the soft and flavorful tofu with the meat and vegetable filling and the zesty dipping sauce is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your newfound cooking skills.

In Conclusion

Vietnamese stuffed tofu is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer. It's a great way to incorporate tofu into your diet and add a new flavor profile to your meals. Try out this recipe and let your taste buds be the judge. Happy cooking!