Spicy Pork Tofu
Spicy Pork Tofu Recipe from China
Introduction
Spicy Pork Tofu is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the heat of spicy pork with the creaminess of tofu. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals.
History
The origins of Spicy Pork Tofu can be traced back to traditional Chinese cuisine. This dish has been enjoyed for generations and has become a popular choice for those looking for a satisfying and spicy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of chopped napa cabbage
- 0.5 tbsp of salt
- canola oil
- 0.5 lb (227 g) of ground pork
- 2 tbsp of minced ginger
- 1.5 tbsp of minced garlic
- 2 tbsp of thin soy sauce
- 3 tbsp of sesame oil
- 10 slices of tofu (2- x 1 inch)
How to prepare
- Sprinkle the cabbage with salt and let it stand for 30 minutes.
- Place the cabbage on a clean dish towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess water.
- The drier the cabbage, the better.
- In a hot wok that has been coated with canola oil, add the ground pork.
- Stir-fry until the pork is nearly cooked through.
- Add ginger, garlic, and salt; cook for another two minutes.
- Deglaze the wok with soy sauce.
- Add napa cabbage and sesame oil; continue cooking until the cabbage is wilted.
- Check the seasoning.
- Spoon the contents of the wok over the tofu on a large serving platter, serving family-style.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground pork with mushrooms or tofu crumbles.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for added color and nutrients.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the cabbage to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Adjust the amount of spice to your liking by adding more or less chili peppers.
- Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spicy Pork Tofu with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Cooking Techniques
Stir-fry the ingredients in a hot wok to ensure they cook quickly and retain their flavors and textures.
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute ground chicken or turkey for the ground pork for a lighter option.
- Use bok choy or spinach instead of napa cabbage for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the tofu slices on a platter and top with the spicy pork and cabbage mixture for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Spicy Pork Tofu with a side of steamed broccoli or a cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
320 per serving
Carbohydrates
12g per serving
Fats
18g per serving
Proteins
22g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy and sesame oil.
Summary
This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories.
Summary
Spicy Pork Tofu is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. With a balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. I had always loved cooking and experimenting with different ingredients, so when I came across a recipe for Spicy Pork Tofu in an old cookbook at a flea market, I knew I had to try it.
The recipe called for tender cubes of pork, silky cubes of tofu, and a fiery blend of spices that promised to tantalize my taste buds. I was intrigued by the combination of ingredients and the promise of a dish that was both comforting and exciting.
I asked the seller at the flea market where the recipe came from, but she shrugged and said it had been passed down to her from a friend. I knew then that this recipe was a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered and shared with others.
I hurried home with my new cookbook in hand, eager to try out the recipe for Spicy Pork Tofu. I gathered all the ingredients I needed – pork, tofu, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, chili paste, and a few other spices – and set to work in the kitchen.
As I diced the pork and tofu into bite-sized cubes, the familiar rhythm of cooking washed over me. I sautéed the pork in a hot pan until it was golden brown and crispy, then added the tofu and watched as it soaked up all the delicious flavors.
Next came the garlic and ginger, their pungent aromas filling the kitchen with warmth and spice. I added the soy sauce and chili paste, stirring everything together until the sauce coated each piece of pork and tofu in a sticky, savory glaze.
I let the Spicy Pork Tofu simmer on the stove, the tantalizing smells wafting through the air and making my mouth water. When it was finally ready, I spooned it onto a plate and took my first bite.
The flavors exploded in my mouth – the rich, umami taste of the pork, the creamy texture of the tofu, and the fiery kick of the chili paste. It was a dish that was both comforting and exciting, just as I had hoped.
I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and quiet nights at home when I wanted something special to eat.
Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Spicy Pork Tofu, tweaking the spices and adjusting the cooking times until it was just right. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that I had created something truly delicious.
I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its bold flavors and comforting warmth. They asked me where I had learned to make such a dish, and I could only smile and say that it had been passed down to me from a mysterious source at a flea market.
As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened. I continued to seek out new recipes and techniques, always eager to learn and expand my culinary skills. But no matter how many new dishes I tried, Spicy Pork Tofu remained a favorite – a dish that never failed to bring joy and satisfaction to those who tasted it.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the smells of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that sparked my passion for cooking so many years ago. Spicy Pork Tofu has become more than just a dish – it's a symbol of my love for food, family, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with those I care about.
And so, I continue to make Spicy Pork Tofu, each batch more delicious than the last, knowing that its flavors will always bring a smile to the faces of those I love. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, just like the memories and traditions that I cherish with each passing year.
Categories
| Chinese Recipes | Ground Pork Recipes | Napa Cabbage Recipes | Tofu Recipes |