Dive into the rich and savory world of Chinese cuisine with our mouthwatering Three Cup San Bei Tofu! This delightful dish, bursting with flavor and aroma, is a perfect balance of crispy tofu and aromatic herbs, making it a must-try for anyone craving a satisfying vegetarian meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you'll be amazed at how easily you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup rice wine
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional)
Instructions
- Press the tofu block for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch uniform cubes and pat dry with paper towels to ensure crispy edges during cooking.
- Prepare all ingredients by mincing fresh ginger and garlic finely. Wash and pat dry the fresh basil leaves, keeping them whole.
- Heat a large wok or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and allow it to become hot but not smoking.
- Carefully add tofu cubes to the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same wok, reduce heat to medium and add remaining sesame oil, minced ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in soy sauce and rice wine, stirring to combine. If using chili paste, add it now for extra heat and complexity.
- Return tofu cubes to the wok, gently tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
- In the final minute of cooking, add fresh basil leaves and quickly stir to wilt them slightly.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, allowing the sauce to be absorbed by the rice for maximum flavor.
Tips
- Press Your Tofu: For the best texture, make sure to press the tofu for at least 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden exterior.
- Uniform Cubes: Cut your tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. This will help all sides get that perfect crunch!
- Hot Oil is Key: When frying the tofu, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cubes. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that desirable crispiness.
- Don’t Rush the Flavors: Allow the ginger and garlic to sauté just until fragrant before adding the soy sauce and rice wine. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Basil Boost: Add the fresh basil leaves at the end of cooking to keep their vibrant color and fresh flavor. A quick stir is all it needs to wilt them slightly.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your Three Cup San Bei Tofu over steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
