Craving a vibrant, flavorful vegetarian dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than our recipe for Braised Tofu & Straw Mushroom with Pineapple! This delightful combination of textures and tastes offers a unique twist on classic comfort food. The sweet and tangy pineapple perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms and the subtly savory tofu, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth. Imagine tender tofu, soaked in a rich, aromatic sauce, alongside crisp-tender mushrooms and juicy pineapple chunks. This isn't your average tofu stir-fry; this is a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, impressing your guests with its exotic flair and undeniable deliciousness. The preparation is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Pan
- Basin
Ingredients
- Tofu: 3 pieces (450g each)
- Pineapple: 250g
- Straw Mushrooms (Pen Mushrooms): 150g
- Soy Sauce: 5 tablespoons
- Green Onion Root (or Onion)
- Salt: 1.5 teaspoons
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- MSG: 1 teaspoon
- Cooking Oil
- Fresh Coconut Water: 400ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Cut the pineapple into small pieces.
- Wash the straw mushrooms in salted water, soak for 2 minutes, then halve the larger mushrooms. Leave smaller ones whole.
- Marinate the straw mushrooms with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, a little sugar, and the other spices for 10 minutes.
Step 2. Cook the Tofu and Mushrooms
- Heat cooking oil in a pan and fry the tofu until lightly golden brown. Don't over-fry; slightly crispy is best.
- Heat cooking oil in a pot, sauté green onion roots (or onions) until fragrant.
- Add the marinated straw mushrooms and stir-fry until fragrant.
Step 3. Simmer in Coconut Broth
- Add the remaining soy sauce, salt, sugar, MSG, and 400ml of fresh coconut water.
- Add the fried tofu, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Before turning off the heat, add more green onions.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using fresh coconut water instead of plain water enhances flavor. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Lightly frying the tofu prevents it from breaking apart during braising and adds texture.
- Leaving some sauce will allow you to pour it over rice when serving.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Yes! Shiitake, oyster, or cremini mushrooms would all work well as substitutes for straw mushrooms. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the mushroom type.
2. What can I substitute for pineapple?
If you don't have pineapple, you could use a different type of fruit like mango or even a splash of orange juice for a similar sweetness and acidity. The flavor profile will change slightly.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a chili pepper (like a Thai chili or serrano) or a dash of chili garlic sauce to the sauce while it simmers. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
This Braised Tofu & Straw Mushroom with Pineapple recipe is a testament to the vibrant and satisfying possibilities of vegetarian cuisine. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors, and don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to personalize this versatile dish. We hope you savor every bite!