Tofu Simmered in Hoisin Sauce by Deborah Madison
Deborah Madison's Tofu Simmered in Hoisin Sauce is a flavor-packed vegetarian recipe that transforms simple tofu into a savory masterpiece. This dish features golden-crisp tofu cubes simmered in a rich, umami-loaded sauce made with hoisin, low-sodium soy sauce, and aromatic sesame oil, enhanced with fresh ginger and garlic. A touch of optional red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat, while scallions provide a fresh, zesty finish. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, this recipe is a perfect balance of ease and sophistication, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal that's both vegetarian and bursting with bold Asian-inspired flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu
- 4 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 whole scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., canola or vegetable oil)
Instructions
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 15 minutes.
Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
In a small bowl, mix the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu cubes. Cook the tofu for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Give the hoisin sauce mixture a quick stir and pour it into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
Return the tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with thinly sliced scallions.
Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1255 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 90.3 g | 116% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.1 g | 55% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 12.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 2 mg | 1% | |
| Sodium | 2110 mg | 92% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 53.5 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.3 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.9 g | ||
| Protein | 69.2 g | 138% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2778 mg | 214% | |
| Iron | 13.1 mg | 73% | |
| Potassium | 1153 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
