Chinese Style Steam Tofu Recipes: Quick and Easy Ideas

If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you'll know that tofu is a staple ingredient in many dishes. One of the most popular ways to prepare tofu is by steaming it, which gives it a delicate texture and allows it to absorb the flavours of the other ingredients in the dish. Chinese-style steamed tofu recipes are easy to make, healthy, and delicious, making them a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

To get started with steaming tofu, you'll need to understand the basics of tofu and how to prepare it for cooking. Tofu is made from soybeans and is a great source of protein, making it a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans. It comes in many different varieties, but silken tofu is the best type to use for steaming as it has a soft and smooth texture. Before steaming, you'll need to drain and press the tofu to remove any excess water and help it hold its shape during cooking.

Once you've prepared your tofu, you can start experimenting with different Chinese-style steamed tofu recipes. From simple dishes with just a few ingredients to more complex recipes with a variety of flavours and textures, there are endless possibilities when it comes to steaming tofu. Plus, you can even add seafood to your steamed tofu for an extra burst of flavour and nutrition. Try adding shrimp, scallops, or crabmeat to your steamed tofu for a delicious twist on a classic dish.

Key Takeaways

• Steaming tofu is an easy and healthy way to prepare this staple ingredient in Chinese cuisine.
• Silken tofu is the best type to use for steaming, and it should be drained and pressed before cooking.
• You can add seafood to your steamed tofu for an extra burst of flavour and nutrition, such as shrimp, scallops, or crabmeat.

Understanding Tofu

Tofu is a versatile and nutritious food that has been enjoyed in Asia for centuries. It is made from soybeans that have been ground into a fine paste, then boiled and pressed to form a solid block. Tofu is a staple ingredient in many Chinese dishes and is often used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan cooking.

Tofu Varieties

There are several varieties of tofu available, including soft, silken, firm, and extra-firm. Soft and silken tofu are best used in recipes that require a smooth and creamy texture, such as soups and desserts. Firm and extra-firm tofu are ideal for stir-fries, grilling, and baking, as they hold their shape well and have a chewy texture.

Nutritional Profile

Tofu is a great source of protein, with around 10 grams of protein per 100 grams of tofu. It is also low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Tofu is also high in calcium and iron, which are important minerals for maintaining strong bones and healthy blood.

When cooking with tofu, you can add seafood to the recipe to enhance its flavour and nutritional value. For example, you can add shrimp or scallops to a steamed tofu dish to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Alternatively, you can use seafood broth instead of water when steaming the tofu to add extra flavour.

In summary, tofu is a versatile and nutritious food that can be used in a variety of recipes. By understanding the different varieties of tofu and its nutritional profile, you can make informed choices about how to use it in your cooking. Adding seafood to your tofu dishes is a great way to enhance their flavour and nutritional value, so don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations!

Essential Ingredients and Tools

Key Ingredients

When it comes to making Chinese-style steamed tofu, there are a few key ingredients that you'll need. These include:

• Tofu: Soft or silken tofu is best for steaming, as it has a delicate texture that will absorb the flavours of your sauce.
• Soy sauce: This is a staple ingredient in many Chinese dishes, and it adds a savoury, umami flavour to your steamed tofu.
• Water: You'll need water to create the steam that will cook your tofu.
• Oil: Sesame oil is a popular choice for Chinese-style steamed tofu, as it adds a nutty flavour to the dish.
• Salt: A pinch of salt will help to enhance the flavours of your dish.
• Sugar: A little bit of sugar can help to balance out the saltiness of the soy sauce and create a more complex flavour profile.

Cookware for Steaming

To steam your tofu, you'll need a steamer. You can use a bamboo steamer, which is a traditional option, or a metal steamer basket. If you're using a bamboo steamer, make sure to line it with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent the tofu from sticking.

To set up your steamer, fill a wok or large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place your steamer basket or bamboo steamer on top of the wok or pot, making sure that the water doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer.

If you want to add some protein to your steamed tofu, seafood is a great option. You can use shrimp, scallops or fish fillets to add some extra flavour and texture to your dish. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly and ensure that the seafood is cooked through before serving.

Preparation Techniques

Tofu Preparation

Before you start making a steamed tofu recipe, you need to prepare the tofu. The first step is to choose the right type of tofu. For steaming, it is best to use a soft or silken tofu, which has a high water content and is delicate in texture.

Once you have your tofu, you need to drain it. You can do this by placing the tofu block on a plate and covering it with a paper towel or kitchen towel. Then, place a heavy object on top of the tofu, like a cast-iron skillet or a can of beans. Leave it for around 30 minutes to an hour to remove excess water.

After draining the tofu, you can cut it into your desired shape. For steamed tofu, it is best to cut it into small cubes or slices, so that it cooks evenly.

Steaming Process

To steam tofu, you will need a steamer basket or a bamboo steamer. If you don't have either of these, you can use a colander or a metal strainer placed over a pot of boiling water.

Start by boiling water in a pot or wok. Once the water is boiling, place your steamer basket or bamboo steamer on top. Then, add the tofu to the basket or steamer, making sure to leave some space between each piece.

Cover the basket or steamer with a lid and let the tofu steam for around 5-10 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of your tofu pieces and how firm you want them to be.

Once the tofu is cooked, you can remove it from the steamer and serve it immediately with your chosen sauce or seasoning.

If you want to add seafood to your steamed tofu recipe, you can use shrimp or scallops. Simply place the seafood on top of the tofu before steaming, and let it cook along with the tofu. This will add a delicious seafood flavour to your dish.

Chinese-Style Steam Tofu Recipes

If you are looking for a healthy and tasty dish, Chinese-style steam tofu recipes are a great choice. Steamed tofu is a classic Chinese dish that is easy to prepare and can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. Here are some delicious steam tofu recipes that you can try at home.

Classic Steamed Tofu

The classic steamed tofu recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that can be prepared in minutes. To make this dish, you will need silken tofu, ginger, garlic, green onions, and soy sauce. First, slice the ginger and garlic into thin strips and chop the green onions. Then, place the tofu on a steaming plate and sprinkle the ginger, garlic, and green onions on top. Steam the tofu for about 5-10 minutes until it is heated through. Finally, drizzle some soy sauce over the tofu and garnish with some cilantro.

Savoury Tofu Delights

If you are looking for a more flavourful dish, try making savoury tofu delights. One popular dish is Mapo Tofu, which is a spicy Sichuan dish that is made with tofu, ground pork, chili oil, and Sichuan peppercorns. Another delicious dish is Salt and Pepper Tofu, which is a crispy and savoury dish that is made with tofu, salt, pepper, and cornstarch. You can also add some seafood to these dishes, such as shrimp or scallops, to make them even more delicious.

Sweet and Cold Tofu Recipes

If you prefer sweet and cold dishes, there are many tofu recipes that you can try. One popular dish is Sweet Tofu Pudding, which is a dessert that is made with silken tofu, sugar, and vanilla extract. Another delicious dish is Cold Tofu Salad, which is a refreshing dish that is made with tofu, cucumbers, carrots, and a sesame oil dressing. You can also add some seafood to these dishes, such as crab meat or lobster, to make them even more luxurious.

Overall, Chinese-style steam tofu recipes are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy tofu. Whether you prefer savoury or sweet dishes, there is a tofu recipe that is perfect for you. So, why not try making some of these dishes at home today?

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Tofu Toppings

When it comes to garnishing steamed tofu, there are a variety of toppings you can choose from to add flavour and texture to your dish. One popular topping is green onions or scallions, which are commonly used in Asian cuisine and add a fresh and slightly pungent taste. You can also use cilantro or coriander to add a fragrant and herbaceous element to your dish.

Another great topping option is sesame oil, which adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavour to the tofu. You can also use toasted sesame seeds to add a crunchy texture to the dish. If you want to add a bit of heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.

If you're looking to add some protein to your dish, you can also include seafood as a topping. Shrimp or scallops are a great option, as they pair well with the delicate flavour of the tofu. You can also try adding some shredded crab meat or chopped clams for a unique twist.

Accompaniments

To complete your steamed tofu dish, you can serve it with a variety of accompaniments. One classic option is steamed rice, which pairs well with the soft and silky texture of the tofu. You can also serve it with steamed or stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy or broccoli, to add some colour and nutrition to your meal.

If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, you can also serve the tofu with some stir-fried mushrooms or mixed vegetables. Another great option is to serve it with a side of pickled vegetables, such as pickled radish or cucumber, which add a tangy and refreshing flavour to the dish.

When it comes to presentation, you can arrange the tofu and toppings on a large platter or individual plates, and garnish with additional herbs or sesame seeds for added visual appeal. With these garnishing and serving suggestions, you can create a delicious and satisfying steamed tofu dish that is sure to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a simple method for making steamed tofu with egg?

Steamed tofu with egg is a simple and delicious recipe that can be made in just a few minutes. To make this dish, first, mix together some eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl. Then, cut the tofu into small cubes and place them in a heatproof dish. Pour the egg mixture over the tofu and steam for around 10 minutes until the egg is cooked and the tofu is heated through. Serve hot with some chopped scallions on top.

Can you suggest some healthy variations of steamed tofu in Chinese cuisine?

Yes, there are many healthy variations of steamed tofu in Chinese cuisine. One great option is to steam the tofu with some mixed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and snow peas. Another healthy variation is to steam the tofu with mushrooms and bamboo shoots. Seafood can also be added to steamed tofu for a healthy and delicious dish. You can try steaming tofu with prawns, scallops, or fish fillets.

What are some easy steps to prepare steamed tofu with chicken, Chinese style?

To prepare steamed tofu with chicken, Chinese style, start by marinating some chicken breast in soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger for at least 30 minutes. Cut the tofu into small cubes and place them in a heatproof dish. Add the marinated chicken on top of the tofu and steam for around 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Garnish with some chopped scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.

How do you incorporate rice into steamed tofu dishes?

Rice is a great accompaniment to steamed tofu dishes. To incorporate rice into steamed tofu dishes, you can simply serve the steamed tofu on top of a bed of steamed rice. Alternatively, you can mix the steamed tofu with some cooked rice and add some soy sauce and sesame oil for flavour.

What's the best way to prepare steamed tofu with dried shrimp?

To prepare steamed tofu with dried shrimp, start by soaking the dried shrimp in hot water for around 10 minutes until they are soft. Cut the tofu into small cubes and place them in a heatproof dish. Add the soaked dried shrimp on top of the tofu and steam for around 10-15 minutes until the tofu is heated through. Garnish with some chopped scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Why might someone choose to steam tofu, and is it considered a healthy option?

Steaming tofu is a great way to cook it as it preserves its delicate flavour and texture. It is also considered a healthy option as tofu is low in calories and fat, and high in protein. Steamed tofu is a great source of plant-based protein and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.