Chinese Food

Introduction

Stir-frying dried tofu, also known as dried bean curd or doufu gan in Chinese, is a delightful culinary endeavor that combines the savory, umami-rich flavors of the tofu with the crispiness achieved through stir-frying. Dried tofu, unlike its softer counterparts, has a firmer texture that holds up well to high heat, making it an excellent choice for stir-fries. This versatile ingredient can absorb flavors from marinades, sauces, and spices, transforming into a mouthwatering dish that pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of stir-frying dried tofu, from selecting the right type of tofu to preparing it perfectly, and finally, incorporating it into a variety of stir-fry recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook eager to expand your culinary repertoire, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create delicious stir-fried dried tofu dishes.

Chapter 1: Understanding Dried Tofu

Before diving into the stir-frying process, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of dried tofu. Dried tofu is made by pressing and drying fresh tofu to remove excess moisture, resulting in a firmer, more concentrated product. This process intensifies the tofu’s natural flavors and gives it a chewier texture.

Types of Dried Tofu

There are several types of dried tofu available, each with its unique characteristics:

1. Hard Dried Tofu: This type is the firmest and driest, making it ideal for stir-fries. It has a dense texture that holds up well to high heat and can be sliced into thin strips or cubes.

2. Semi-Dried Tofu: This variety is less dry than hard dried tofu but still has a firm texture. It’s suitable for stir-fries but may require less cooking time to prevent it from becoming too chewy.

3. Soft Dried Tofu: Although not traditionally used for stir-fries, soft dried tofu can be an interesting addition to certain dishes. Its softer texture makes it more prone to breaking apart, so it’s best suited for dishes where a softer, more tender result is desired.

Nutritional Benefits

Dried tofu is a nutrient-dense food that offers a range of health benefits. It’s a good source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, dried tofu is low in calories and fat but high in essential amino acids, iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Chapter 2: Preparing Dried Tofu for Stir-Frying

Before stir-frying dried tofu, it requires some preparation to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors effectively.

Soaking the Tofu

The first step in preparing dried tofu for stir-frying is soaking it in water to rehydrate it. This process softens the tofu and makes it more pliable, allowing it to cook more evenly.

• Soaking Time: Soak the dried tofu in cold water for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results. If you’re in a rush, you can use hot water to speed up the process, but be careful not to over-soak the tofu, as it can become too soft.

• Changing the Water: If the water becomes discolored or smells, change it halfway through the soaking process. This helps to remove any impurities and ensures the tofu absorbs clean water.

Slicing and Marinating

Once the tofu is fully soaked, it’s ready to be sliced and marinated.

• Slicing: Drain the tofu and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice it into thin strips, cubes, or bite-sized pieces, depending on your recipe.

  

• Marinating: Marinating dried tofu before stir-frying helps it to absorb flavors and develop a more complex taste. A simple marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger can be used, or you can experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste. Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Chapter 3: Stir-Frying Dried Tofu

Now that your dried tofu is prepared, it’s time to stir-fry it. This section will guide you through the stir-frying process, from heating the oil to adding the tofu and finishing with a delicious sauce.

Heating the Pan and Oil

Start by heating a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a sufficient amount of oil to coat the bottom of the pan. The type of oil you use can affect the flavor of your dish, so choose one with a high smoking point, such as peanut oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil.

Cooking the Tofu

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated tofu pieces to the pan, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can reduce the heat and cause the tofu to steam rather than stir-fry.

• Stir-Frying: Stir-fry the tofu for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula or tongs to turn the pieces gently, as dried tofu can be fragile.

• Adjusting the Heat: If the tofu is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent it from burning. Conversely, if it’s not browning enough, increase the heat slightly.

  

Adding Aromatics and Sauces

Once the tofu is crispy and golden, it’s time to add aromatics and sauces to create a flavorful stir-fry.

• Aromatics: Add chopped garlic, ginger, and scallions to the pan and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Sauces: Pour in a prepared sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or a combination of your favorite ingredients. Stir well to coat the tofu evenly with the sauce.

• Simmering: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to thin it out. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors and cook the sauce slightly.

Adding Vegetables and Final Touches

Stir-fried dried tofu is often served with a variety of vegetables, which add color, texture, and additional nutrients to the dish.

• Choosing Vegetables: Popular choices include bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and baby corn. Select vegetables that cook quickly, as you want to maintain the crispness of the tofu.

• Cooking Vegetables: Add the vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.

  

• Final Touches: If desired, you can add a splash of sesame oil, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.

Chapter 4: Stir-Fry Recipes Featuring Dried Tofu

Now that you know the basics of stir-frying dried tofu, it’s time to try out some delicious recipes. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity.

Recipe 1: Dried Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. dried tofu, soaked, sliced, and marinated
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, sliced into thin matchsticks
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp. oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1 tbsp. cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp. water (for thickening)
• 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated tofu and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and cornstarch slurry. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir well to coat.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Recipe 2: Spicy Dried Tofu Stir-Fry with Peanuts and Scallions

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. dried tofu, soaked, sliced, and marinated
• 1/2 cup snap peas
• 1/2 cup sliced