Steamed Tofu with Vietnamese Coriander & Chili Sauce

This recipe for Steamed Tofu with Vietnamese Coriander offers a delightful exploration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Imagine tender, silken tofu infused with the fragrant, slightly peppery notes of Vietnamese coriander (rau răm), balanced by a spicy chili sauce that adds a welcome kick. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a light and healthy lunch. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the complex and satisfying result, a testament to the magic of fresh herbs and minimal cooking. It’s a vegetarian delight that’s both nutritious and incredibly flavorful.

The combination of steaming the tofu and the bright, herbaceous sauce creates a textural and taste sensation. The slightly chewy tofu contrasts beautifully with the sharp, fresh herbs. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this stunning Steamed Tofu with Vietnamese Coriander.

Tools Needed

  • Steamer
  • Pot
  • Blender
  • Pan

Ingredients

  • Fried Tofu: 5 noodles
  • Vietnamese Coriander: a few leaves
  • Chili Peppers: 2
  • Hot Peppers: 2
  • Garlic: 2 tablespoons, minced
  • Sugar: 1 spoonful
  • Cornstarch: 1/5 spoonful
  • Cooking Oil
  • Chili Sauce: 2 spoons
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Chili Sauce

  • Boil chili peppers for about 5 minutes to make the chili sauce more delicious and preserve it longer.
  • Let the chili cool, then cut into small pieces and blend with sugar, cornstarch, oil, and chili sauce.
  • Heat cooking oil in a pan, add minced garlic and fry until fragrant.
  • Add the blended chili mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring until it boils vigorously for about 2 minutes.
Boil chili peppers for about 5 minutes to make the chili sauce more delicious and preserve it longer.Let the chili cool, then cut into small pieces and blend with sugar, cornstarch, oil, and chili sauce.Heat cooking oil in a pan, add minced garlic and fry until fragrant.Add the blended chili mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring until it boils vigorously for about 2 minutes.
Prepare the Chili Sauce
  • Set aside to cool.
Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Chili Sauce

Step 2. Steam the Tofu

  • Steam the tofu for 7-10 minutes until heated through.
Steam the tofu for 7-10 minutes until heated through.
Steam the Tofu

Step 3. Combine and Season

  • Cut the steamed tofu and brush with the chili sauce. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cut the steamed tofu and brush with the chili sauce. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Season

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve hot.
Serve hot.
Serve

Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack

Tips

  • Use plenty of oil in the chili sauce to help preserve it.
  • This dish is best enjoyed hot.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 250-300
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Carbs: 10-15g
  • Protein: 15-20g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of tofu?

Yes! Firm or extra-firm tofu will work best as they hold their shape better during steaming. Silken tofu will become too soft.

2. What can I substitute for Vietnamese coriander (rau răm)?

While rau răm offers a unique flavor, cilantro or a combination of cilantro and culantro can be used as substitutes. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.


This simple yet flavorful Steamed Tofu with Vietnamese Coriander & Chili Sauce is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients. Enjoy this healthy and delicious dish as a light meal, a vibrant side, or a flavorful addition to your next rice bowl. We hope you savor every bite!