Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork

Introduction

History

This traditional Chinese dish has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Chinese culinary traditions. Tofu, also known as bean curd, has long been a staple in Chinese cuisine, while minced pork adds a hearty and flavorful element to the dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the tofu thoroughly before cooking to remove excess moisture and prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences for spiciness.

- For a more authentic flavor, consider using Chinese soy sauce and sesame oil in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork over steamed rice for a complete and filling meal. Garnish with additional chopped green onions for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Microwaving the dish is a quick and convenient cooking method, but you can also stir-fry the ingredients in a wok for a more traditional preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sesame oil, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute. You can also use firm tofu instead of soft tofu for a firmer texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the pork mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This will save time when you're ready to make the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Green tea or a light lager beer make excellent beverage choices to accompany this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 9g

Fats

Total Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Proteins

Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 200mg

Iron: 3mg

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, this dish is a healthy and delicious option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend in the bustling city of Shanghai. My friend, Mei Lin, invited me over for dinner at her cozy apartment, promising to cook me a traditional Chinese meal.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the savory aroma of garlic and soy sauce wafting through the air. Mei Lin greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a glass of freshly brewed oolong tea. She then began to prepare the ingredients for the dish she had in mind.

I watched in awe as Mei Lin expertly diced onions, minced ginger, and chopped green onions with lightning speed. She then took out a block of firm tofu and carefully sliced it into cubes, all the while explaining to me the importance of using fresh and high-quality ingredients in Chinese cooking.

As the tofu simmered in a fragrant broth of soy sauce, rice wine, and chicken stock, Mei Lin began to brown the minced pork in a hot wok. The sizzle of the meat and the aroma of the spices filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the pork was cooked through, Mei Lin added the tofu to the wok and gently stirred the ingredients together. She then seasoned the dish with a dash of sesame oil, a sprinkle of white pepper, and a handful of chopped cilantro. The final touch was a drizzle of chili oil for a hint of spice.

As Mei Lin plated the Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork, she explained to me the significance of this dish in Chinese cuisine. She told me that it was a comfort food, often enjoyed with a bowl of steamed rice and shared with loved ones. The combination of the tender tofu and flavorful pork created a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that delighted the palate.

I eagerly took a bite of the dish, and my taste buds were immediately greeted with a burst of umami goodness. The tofu was silky smooth, the pork was savory and juicy, and the spices added a depth of flavor that lingered on my tongue.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but marvel at the complexity and simplicity of Chinese cuisine. The way Mei Lin effortlessly combined ingredients to create a dish that was both comforting and satisfying was truly inspiring.

After dinner, Mei Lin shared the recipe for Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork with me, encouraging me to recreate it at home. She emphasized the importance of patience and precision in Chinese cooking, reminding me that each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final dish.

Since that day, I have made Chinese Tofu with Minced Pork countless times, each time recalling the memories of that warm summer evening in Shanghai. I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and seasonings to create a dish that is uniquely my own.

As I continue to explore the world of Chinese cuisine, I am grateful for the knowledge and inspiration that Mei Lin has passed down to me. Cooking this dish always brings me back to that moment in her kitchen, where the flavors and aromas of China came to life in a simple yet unforgettable meal.

Categories

| Chile Pepper Recipes | Chinese Meat Dishes | Chinese Recipes | Pork Recipes | Sesame Oil Recipes | Shallot Recipes | Tofu Recipes |

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