Asians > Chinese > Tofu

Black Vinegar Tofu Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 block of firm tofu (14 oz)
- 1/4 cup black vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Drain the tofu and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the black vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
4. Pour the sauce over the tofu and stir gently to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the tofu is glazed.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

15 minutes
5. Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving size: 4

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Sugar: 9g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- White vinegar can be used instead of black vinegar.
- Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar.
- Arrowroot powder can be used instead of cornstarch.

Variations:
- Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the tofu.
- Use silken tofu instead of firm tofu for a creamier texture.
- Add a splash of rice wine or mirin for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Press the tofu between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess water before cooking.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the tofu from sticking to the pan.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tofu over a bed of rice or noodles.
- Garnish with additional sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds

Pairings:
- Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bok choy
- Stir-fried noodles or rice
- Miso soup

Suggested side dishes:
- Edamame
- Seaweed salad
- Pickled vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to thin it out.
- If the tofu is sticking to the pan, add a bit more oil to the skillet.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the tofu to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Black vinegar is a type of vinegar that originated in China and is made from rice, wheat, barley, or sorghum.

Flavor profiles:
- Tangy, savory, slightly sweet

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or as a side dish.

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Region: Chinese

Taste: Sour, Tangy, Umami, Savory, Aromatic