Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce

Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce Recipe | Easy & Healthy

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the delicate taste of tofu with a zesty ginger sauce. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy and vegetarian option that is also packed with protein.

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. Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to soups. The addition of a ginger sauce adds a unique twist to this classic ingredient.

Ingredients

Ginger Sauce

6 tbsp rice vinegar
6 tbsp granulated sugar
0.75 cup plus 1 tbsp water
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp finely minced gingerroot

Tofu

0.5 lb (227 g) firm tofu
0.5 cup unbleached flour
2 tbsp toasted wheat germ
0.5 tsp thyme
0.25 tsp dill weed
0.25 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp paprika
0.25 tsp black pepper
1 egg
1 tbsp milk
3 drops hot pepper sauce
2 tbsp safflower oil

How to prepare

In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, 0.75 cup of water, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix cornstarch and 1 tbsp of water; stir into the sauce. Cook the mixture, stirring until it becomes clear and thickened. Remove the pan from heat and stir in ginger. This will yield 1 cup of sauce.
While the ginger sauce is simmering, cut the tofu into 1-inch squares, about 0.25 inch thick. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, wheat germ, and seasonings.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg. Add milk and hot pepper sauce. In a large skillet, heat oil. Dip each piece of tofu in flour, then in the egg mixture, and again in flour. Sauté until lightly browned, about 3 minutes on each side.
Serve warm, arranged on a platter with cocktail forks and a bowl of ginger sauce. Surround the platter with curly lettuce leaves or large sprigs of parsley.
This recipe makes 4 to 6 servings.
Variation: Use egg white only.

Variations

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to press the tofu before cooking to remove excess moisture and allow it to absorb more flavor.

- Be sure to sauté the tofu on high heat to achieve a crispy exterior.

- Adjust the amount of ginger in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the tofu allows it to develop a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. Be sure to cook the tofu on high heat to achieve the desired texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different flavor and texture. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the ginger sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ginger sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The tofu can be pressed and cut ahead of time for quicker assembly.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sautéed tofu on a platter with a drizzle of ginger sauce and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. A glass of white wine or green tea complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the tofu in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and reheat the ginger sauce in a saucepan over low heat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu is a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium. The ginger in the sauce adds a boost of vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in calories. It is a great option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Summary

Sautéed Tofu with Ginger Sauce is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and those looking for a healthy meal option. With a zesty ginger sauce and crispy tofu, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was browsing through a stack of old cookbooks at a neighborhood garage sale. As I flipped through the pages, a vibrant photo of sautéed tofu with ginger sauce caught my eye. The colors and textures were so enticing, I knew I had to try making it myself.

I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to gather the ingredients. Tofu, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a few other simple ingredients were all that was needed. As I chopped and measured, a sense of excitement and anticipation washed over me. I love trying new recipes and experimenting with different flavors, and this one seemed like the perfect combination of savory and sweet.

As I heated the oil in the skillet and added the tofu cubes, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of cooking garlic and ginger. The tofu sizzled and browned, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it carefully and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the earthy tofu, the zesty ginger, the salty soy sauce. It was a symphony of tastes and textures, and I knew I had discovered a new favorite recipe.

I shared the sautéed tofu with ginger sauce with my family that evening, and they all raved about it. My husband said it was the best tofu dish he had ever tasted, and my grandchildren asked for seconds. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I had created something truly special.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a splash of lime juice for extra tang, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch. Each time I make it, I think back to that hot summer day when I stumbled upon the recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen.

I have shared the sautéed tofu with ginger sauce with friends and neighbors, passing on the recipe to anyone who asks. It has become a signature dish of mine, a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for trying new things.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day at the garage sale, I am grateful for the joy and fulfillment that cooking has brought into my life. The kitchen has always been my sanctuary, a place where I can unleash my creativity and share my love with those around me. And the sautéed tofu with ginger sauce will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that happens when you combine simple ingredients with a dash of inspiration.