Burmese Tofu Salad

Burmese Tofu Salad Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Burma

Region / culture: Burma | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Burmese Tofu Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that combines the unique flavors of tofu, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and tamarind juice. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement a main course.

History

Burmese Tofu Salad is a traditional dish from Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). Tofu, also known as Shan tofu, is a popular ingredient in Burmese cuisine and is often used in salads, soups, and curries. This salad is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy tofu in a refreshing and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

400 g (14 oz) thinly sliced tofu
3 crushed garlic cloves
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 inches grated root ginger
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 thinly sliced onion
1 tbsp tamarind juice

How to prepare

In a serving dish or salad bowl, combine the sliced tofu, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger.
Set aside.
In a wok or frying pan, heat the oil and cook the chili powder over low heat for 5 minutes.
Stir well.
Add the onions and stir-fry for another 5 minutes or until the onions turn brown.
Add the tamarind juice and continue to stir for 2 minutes.
To serve, pour the mixture over the tofu, toss well, and serve immediately.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint for added flavor.
Include diced vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or tomatoes for extra crunch and freshness.
Drizzle with a squeeze of lime juice or sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a burst of citrusy or nutty flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thinly slice the tofu to ensure that it absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

- Be careful not to overcook the onions, as they should be slightly browned but still retain their crunchiness.

- Serve the salad immediately after tossing to prevent the tofu from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Burmese Tofu Salad can be served as a light and refreshing meal on its own or as a side dish to complement a main course. It pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the onions and chili powder enhances their flavors and adds a depth of taste to the salad.

- Tossing the tofu with the dressing just before serving ensures that the tofu remains firm and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute tamarind juice with lime juice or rice vinegar for a tangy flavor.

- Use firm or extra-firm tofu instead of thinly sliced tofu for a heartier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Burmese Tofu Salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the tofu and vegetables.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. Serve in a decorative bowl or on a bed of lettuce for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Burmese Tofu Salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu dishes. It also complements spicy curries or stir-fries for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Burmese Tofu Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Burmese Tofu Salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Burmese Tofu Salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Burmese Tofu Salad contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Burmese Tofu Salad contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Burmese Tofu Salad is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and may not be suitable for individuals with soy allergies.

Summary

Burmese Tofu Salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Burmese Tofu Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With its unique combination of ingredients and refreshing taste, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this light and healthy dish as a meal or side dish for a satisfying and flavorful dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Burmese Tofu Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I flipped through the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out from between the pages. It was a handwritten recipe for a dish I had never heard of before.

Intrigued, I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions. The recipe called for homemade tofu, which was something I had never attempted to make before. But I was determined to give it a try. I ventured out to the local market to gather the necessary ingredients and spent the next few days experimenting in the kitchen.

After several failed attempts, I finally managed to perfect the art of making homemade tofu. The texture was silky smooth, and the flavor was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I was in awe of how something so simple could be so delicious.

Next, I moved on to preparing the rest of the salad. The recipe called for a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing made with lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic. The combination of flavors was truly extraordinary. Each bite was a burst of freshness and crunch, with the creamy tofu acting as the perfect canvas to showcase the vibrant colors and bold flavors of the dish.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think about the journey that had led me to this moment. The recipe for Burmese Tofu Salad had opened up a whole new world of flavors and techniques that I had never explored before. It was a reminder of the power of curiosity and the joy that comes from trying new things.

Over the years, I have continued to make this dish for family and friends, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I'll swap out the vegetables for whatever is in season, or experiment with different herbs and spices to create a new flavor profile. But no matter how many times I make it, the dish always brings me back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe tucked away in an old cookbook.

I like to think that the person who wrote down the recipe all those years ago had a similar sense of curiosity and adventure. Perhaps they stumbled upon the dish during their own travels or learned it from a wise old chef in a bustling market. Whatever the case may be, I am grateful for their generosity in sharing the recipe with the world.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this moment, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the experiences and people who have influenced my love of cooking. From my mother's kitchen to the pages of an old cookbook, each recipe has a story to tell and a lesson to teach. And for that, I am forever thankful.