Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing

Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the delicate texture of tofu with the earthy taste of shiitake mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and vegans looking for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.

History

Tofu, also known as bean curd, has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. It is made by coagulating soy milk and then pressing the curds into blocks. Shiitake mushrooms, on the other hand, have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for their health benefits. The combination of tofu and shiitake mushrooms in this recipe creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

2 x 1 lb (454 g) blocks of tofu, soft, silken, or firm
1 tsp of chopped garlic
2 tsp of chopped fresh ginger
2 tsp of canola oil
1 tsp of sesame oil
8 oz (227 g) of fresh shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped in a food processor
2 scallions, chopped
1 tbsp of sherry
1 tbsp of tamari soy sauce
1 tbsp of chopped fresh coriander
0.5 tsp of salt, or to taste
0.25 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
a pinch of crushed red peppers or a dash of hot sauce

How to prepare

If using silken tofu, drain it for 2 to 3 hours by placing a weight on top of it.
Cut each piece of tofu in half vertically to create 4 smaller blocks.
Using a melon baller or soup spoon, scoop out the middle of each block, making a hollow about 1.5 inches deep and 1.5 inches wide.
Finely chop the scooped-out tofu and set it aside.
Heat the oils in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic and ginger until they become soft.
Add the chopped shiitake mushrooms, scallions, sherry, and the reserved chopped tofu.
Cook until the mixture becomes dry and dark brown, which should take about 5 minutes.
Add the sherry, tamari, fresh coriander, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper.
Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Transfer the mushroom mixture into a pastry bag and pipe it into the hollow of each tofu block.
Alternatively, you can use a spoon to fill the hollows with the mixture.
Steam the stuffed tofu on a rack in a vegetable steamer for 5 minutes, or microwave it until heated through.
Serve the stuffed tofu with tamari, regular soy sauce, or miso vinaigrette.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the mushroom stuffing for extra texture and flavor.
Substitute the shiitake mushrooms with other varieties such as cremini or button mushrooms.
Drizzle the stuffed tofu with a spicy peanut sauce or teriyaki glaze for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the silken tofu properly to remove excess water and prevent the stuffing from becoming too soggy.

- Sautéing the garlic and ginger before adding the mushrooms helps to release their flavors and aromas.

- Use a pastry bag to pipe the mushroom mixture into the tofu blocks for a neat and professional presentation.

- Steaming the stuffed tofu helps to infuse the flavors and ensures that the tofu is heated through evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced scallions for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the stuffed tofu helps to retain the moisture and flavors of the dish. Alternatively, you can bake the stuffed tofu in the oven for a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute the canola oil with olive oil or sesame oil for a different flavor profile.

- Use any type of fresh herbs such as parsley or basil instead of coriander.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mushroom stuffing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply fill the tofu blocks and steam them when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the stuffed tofu blocks on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad for a balanced and nutritious meal. Serve with a glass of green tea or sake for a refreshing beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover stuffed tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or steam until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and calcium from the tofu and shiitake mushrooms.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to add more plant-based protein to their diet.

Summary

Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. With a rich combination of tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and aromatic seasonings, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. Enjoy this dish as a main course or as a side dish for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing. It was many years ago, on a trip to Japan with my husband. We were exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, immersing ourselves in the culture and cuisine of this beautiful country.

One day, we stumbled upon a small, quaint restaurant tucked away in a narrow alley. The aroma of savory spices and fresh herbs wafted through the air, drawing us in like a magnet. As we entered the cozy establishment, we were greeted by the friendly owner, an elderly woman with a warm smile and twinkling eyes.

She welcomed us with open arms and seated us at a table near the window, where we could watch the world go by as we dined. The menu was filled with tantalizing dishes, each more tempting than the last. But one dish in particular caught my eye - Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing.

I had never tasted anything like it before, and I knew I had to try it. When the dish arrived at our table, I was taken aback by its beauty. The tofu was perfectly golden brown, with a rich, umami-filled stuffing of shiitake mushrooms, onions, and garlic. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a culinary paradise. The flavors danced on my taste buds, each bite more delicious than the last. I savored every morsel, savoring the complex blend of textures and tastes.

After finishing the meal, I couldn't resist asking the owner for the recipe. She chuckled and nodded, her eyes twinkling with mischief. She led me into the kitchen, where she revealed her secrets for creating this masterpiece of a dish.

She showed me how to marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and ginger, imparting it with a rich, savory flavor. Then, she taught me how to sauté the shiitake mushrooms with onions and garlic until they were tender and fragrant, creating a luscious filling for the tofu.

I watched in awe as she expertly assembled the dish, layering the tofu with the stuffing and drizzling it with a luscious marinade. She placed it in the oven to bake, allowing the flavors to meld together into a harmonious symphony of taste.

As the dish cooked, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of herbs and spices, making my stomach growl in anticipation. When the timer finally dinged, signaling that the dish was ready, I couldn't wait to dig in.

I took a bite of the Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing, and my taste buds exploded with joy. The tofu was tender and flavorful, with a delectable umami undertone from the shiitake mushrooms. The stuffing was rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the mirin and ginger.

I knew that I had to recreate this dish at home, to share with my family and friends. And so, armed with the owner's recipe and my newfound knowledge, I set to work in my own kitchen.

I gathered the ingredients, marinating the tofu and sautéing the shiitake mushrooms with care and precision. As the dish baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. When it was finally ready, I plated it with a flourish, eager to share my creation with my loved ones.

As they took their first bites, their eyes widened in delight. They marveled at the flavors, the textures, the sheer deliciousness of the dish. And as they showered me with praise and compliments, I knew that I had truly captured the magic of that small, quaint restaurant in Tokyo.

From that day on, Marinated Tofu with Shiitake Stuffing became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I served it at family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions, always to rave reviews and satisfied smiles.

And every time I make this dish, I am transported back to that cozy restaurant in Tokyo, where I first discovered the joy of cooking and the magic of creating something truly extraordinary. The recipe may have come from a kind stranger in a faraway land, but the memories and the flavors will always hold a special place in my heart.