Tofu, a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, including Chinese cooking, is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in a multitude of ways. In this article, we will explore 18 mouth-watering tofu recipes that showcase the culinary diversity of Chinese cuisine. From spicy stir-fries to comforting braises, and from crispy fried treats to steamed delights, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
In Sichuan province, for instance, mapo tofu is a beloved dish made with silken tofu, ground pork, and chili peppers. In the north, braised tofu with mushrooms and bamboo shoots is a hearty and comforting staple. And in Cantonese cuisine, stir-fried tofu with garlic sauce is a classic combination.
But wait, there’s more! Our collection of 18 flavorful tofu recipes also includes sweet and sour tofu with pineapple, Kung Pao tofu with peanuts, and many more delectable options.
Mapo Tofu with Sichuan Peppercorns
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creaminess of silken tofu with the bold flavors of chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. This recipe adds an extra layer of complexity with the addition of Sichuan peppercorns, which create a unique numbing sensation on the tongue.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Add tofu; cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Sichuan peppercorns, chili bean paste, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture. Stir constantly until thickened, about 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Tofu with Mushrooms and Bamboo Shoots
Braised Tofu with Mushrooms and Bamboo Shoots: A rich and savory dish that combines the creaminess of tofu with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and bamboo shoots.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into cubes
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 bamboo shoots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and bamboo shoots to the pan, cooking until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the tofu is coated in the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic Sauce
This recipe is a flavorful and protein-packed stir-fry that combines crispy tofu with a savory garlic sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
5. Pour the sauce into the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry until well coated with the garlic sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Tofu with Pineapple
Sweet and Sour Tofu with Pineapple Recipe
This sweet and sour tofu recipe combines crispy fried tofu, tangy pineapple, and a hint of spices, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect as a main dish or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or rice)
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil, divided
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip tofu cubes into the mixture, coating evenly.
3. Fry tofu in 2 tablespoons of hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate pan, combine pineapple juice, sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce (if using). Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add fried tofu to the sweet and sour sauce and stir gently to coat.
6. Serve with additional pineapple chunks on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Tofu with Peanuts
A spicy Sichuan-inspired dish that combines crispy tofu, crunchy peanuts, and a savory sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup chili peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the peanuts, scallions, soy sauce, wine, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Minced Pork and Preserved Vegetables
A simple and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of steamed tofu, the savory taste of minced pork, and the tanginess of preserved vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu
– 1/2 cup of minced pork
– 1/4 cup of preserved vegetables (such as Chinese pickled mustard greens or bamboo shoots)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and place them in a steamer basket.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced pork, preserved vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
4. Add the pork mixture on top of the tofu and steam for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Tofu and Eggplant in Spicy Bean Sauce
This recipe combines the savory flavors of tofu and eggplant with the spicy kick of a bean-based sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The slightly sweet and smoky taste of the eggplant pairs well with the tangy and creamy texture of the tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup spicy bean sauce (such as gochujang)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the eggplant slices until tender and slightly charred, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Add the garlic, bean sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Tofu with Black Bean Sauce
Savor the combination of crispy tofu and rich black bean sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Black Bean Sauce:
+ 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ 1 small onion, diced
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 cup vegetable broth
+ 1 teaspoon cumin
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry tofu in hot oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. For the Black Bean Sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve crispy tofu with warm Black Bean Sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu and Vegetable Hot Pot
This comforting hot pot recipe combines tender tofu with a variety of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms, broccoli, and carrots; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in broth and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
6. Return tofu to pot; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clay Pot Tofu with Seafood
This recipe combines the tender goodness of tofu with the brininess of seafood, all cooked to perfection in a clay pot. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and patted dry
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the clay pot or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, garlic, and seafood. Cook until the seafood is opaque and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu Skin Rolls with Shrimp and Pork
A delicious fusion of Asian flavors, these Tofu Skin Rolls are packed with succulent shrimp and pork, wrapped in a crispy tofu skin wrapper. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package firm tofu skin sheets
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add ground pork, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook until pork is browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Cut tofu skin sheets into desired size for rolling. Place a spoonful of the shrimp-pork mixture onto each sheet.
5. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Five-Spice Tofu Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick Asian-inspired dish that combines the savory taste of five-spice powder with the tender texture of tofu. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add tofu; cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Sprinkle five-spice powder; stir-fry for an additional minute to combine flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tofu and Bok Choy in Ginger Sauce
A classic Asian-inspired dish featuring tender tofu, crisp bok choy, and a savory ginger sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual stalks
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté bok choy stalks until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add cooked tofu back into the skillet with bok choy.
7. Pour in ginger sauce and stir to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Deep-Fried Tofu with Sweet Chili Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination of crispy fried tofu and a tangy sweet chili dip. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Dip (see below)
Sweet Chili Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tofu cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tofu in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Sweet Chili Dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tofu and Corn Soup with Crabmeat
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors and seafood delight. With the combination of silken tofu, sweet corn, and succulent crabmeat, this recipe is sure to please both vegetarians and seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 pound crabmeat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, corn kernels, and crumbled tofu. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Stir until well combined.
3. Add crabmeat and stir gently to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of paprika (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad
A harmonious blend of textures and flavors, this salad combines the creaminess of tofu with the earthy sweetness of wood ear mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar.
2. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced wood ear mushrooms and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked tofu and mushrooms in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red-Braised Tofu with Star Anise
This recipe showcases the versatility of tofu by braising it in a rich, aromatic sauce infused with star anise and soy sauce. Perfect as a main dish or side, this comforting vegetarian option is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 piece star anise, whole
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 cup red wine vinegar or Chinese cooking wine
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and star anise; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and water.
5. Pour the sauce over the tofu and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tofu and Chive Dumplings
These delicate dumplings are a perfect combination of soft tofu, savory chives, and subtle spices. Serve them as an appetizer or alongside your favorite Chinese-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt to taste
– Wonton wrappers (about 20-24 sheets)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tofu, chives, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and cornstarch. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the tofu mixture in the center.
3. Dampen the edges with water, then fold the wrapper into a triangle or other desired shape, pressing edges to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook dumplings by steaming for 8-10 minutes or pan-frying with oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of China with these 18 mouthwatering tofu recipes. From spicy stir-fries to savory braises and comforting soups, this collection has something for every taste bud. Try Mapo Tofu with Sichuan peppercorns, Braised Tofu with mushrooms and bamboo shoots, or Sweet and Sour Tofu with pineapple. Or venture further with Kung Pao Tofu with peanuts, Steamed Tofu with minced pork and preserved vegetables, and many more. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just looking for new inspiration, this article is sure to delight your palate.
