Tofu with Oyster Sauce

Tofu with Oyster Sauce Recipe from China | Mushrooms, Bamboo Shoots, Green Onions

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

Introduction

Tofu with Oyster Sauce is a delicious and savory dish that combines the delicate flavors of tofu with the rich umami taste of oyster sauce. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

History

Tofu with Oyster Sauce is a popular Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Tofu, also known as bean curd, has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for thousands of years. Oyster sauce, made from oyster extracts, soy sauce, and other seasonings, adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

1 (4 oz (113 g)) can of button mushrooms, drained
0.25 cup of diced bamboo shoots
1 (14 to 16 oz (454 g)) package of firm tofu, cut into 1 inch cubes
0.5 tsp of salt (optional)
0.5 tsp of granulated sugar
oil
2 tbsp of oyster sauce
1.5 tsp of cornstarch plus 2 tbsp of water
2 green onions, cut into 1 inch pieces (for garnish)

How to prepare

Heat 1 tbsp of polyunsaturated vegetable oil in a wok and stir-fry the vegetables.
Add 2 tbsp of water over all. Remove from the wok.
Add 1 to 2 tbsp of oil to the wok.
Add cubed tofu and stir-fry. Sprinkle 0.5 tsp of salt and 1 tbsp of water over all.
Add oyster sauce and the cooked vegetables. Stir well.
Add the cornstarch mixture and cook until slightly thickened.
Garnish and serve.
Serves 4.
One serving contains 159 calories.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or snow peas for extra crunch.
Use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a different flavor profile.
Substitute the oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a sweeter taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the canned mushrooms thoroughly before using them in the recipe.

- Cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.

- Stir-fry the tofu over high heat to achieve a crispy exterior.

- Adjust the salt and sugar to taste, as oyster sauce can vary in saltiness.

- Garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Tofu with Oyster Sauce can be served with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the main cooking technique used in this recipe. Make sure to cook the tofu over high heat to achieve a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute firm tofu with silken tofu for a softer texture.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Replace button mushrooms with shiitake mushrooms for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetables and tofu ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish is best served fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tofu with Oyster Sauce in a decorative serving dish and garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tofu with Oyster Sauce with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of steamed broccoli for a well-balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Tofu with Oyster Sauce contains 159 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Tofu with Oyster Sauce contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of Tofu with Oyster Sauce contains approximately 9 grams of fats.

Proteins

One serving of Tofu with Oyster Sauce contains approximately 9 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium. Oyster sauce provides a boost of iron and sodium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and oyster sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Tofu with Oyster Sauce is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins and fats. It is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Summary

Tofu with Oyster Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. With a rich umami flavor and a variety of textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Lisa in San Francisco. We decided to explore Chinatown, and as we wandered through the bustling streets, we stumbled upon a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant.

The scent of garlic and soy sauce wafted through the air, drawing us in. We sat down at a rickety wooden table and ordered a variety of dishes, including a plate of tofu with oyster sauce. I had never tried tofu before, but one bite of that dish and I was hooked.

The tofu was silky and smooth, with a savory oyster sauce that complemented it perfectly. I couldn't get enough of it, and I begged the waiter for the recipe. He chuckled and told me it was a family secret, passed down through generations.

Disappointed, but determined, I vowed to recreate the dish at home. I spent hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, until finally, I had perfected the recipe for tofu with oyster sauce.

Years passed, and that recipe became a staple in my cooking repertoire. Whenever I made it for friends and family, they would rave about how delicious it was. I was proud to have discovered such a unique and flavorful dish.

Over time, I shared the recipe with others, passing it along to anyone who showed an interest. I loved the idea of sharing this special dish with others, connecting people through the love of food.

One day, my granddaughter came to visit me. She had always been curious about my cooking and had watched me in the kitchen since she was a little girl. As we sat down to lunch, I served her a plate of tofu with oyster sauce.

Her eyes lit up as she took her first bite, and a smile spread across her face. "Grandma, this is amazing! How did you come up with this recipe?"

I chuckled, remembering the day in Chinatown when I first tasted the dish. "It's a long story, but let me tell you how I learned to make tofu with oyster sauce."

I recounted the tale of my adventure in San Francisco, the flavors and aromas that had captured my heart, and the determination that had led me to create my own version of the dish. My granddaughter listened intently, hanging on every word.

When I finished the story, she looked at me with admiration in her eyes. "Grandma, you're amazing. I hope one day I can learn to cook like you."

I smiled, touched by her words. "Of course, darling. I'll teach you everything I know, starting with this recipe."

And so, I began to teach my granddaughter the secrets of tofu with oyster sauce, passing down the recipe that had brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years. Together, we spent hours in the kitchen, chopping, stirring, and tasting, until she had mastered the dish to perfection.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and contentment. My love for cooking had not only brought me joy, but it had also connected me to my granddaughter in a special way.

And as we savored each bite of tofu with oyster sauce, I knew that this recipe would continue to be a cherished part of our family's culinary tradition for generations to come.