Crispy Tofu in Mushroom Broth Simmer

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €9.15 · €2.29/serving

• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of reduced-sodium tamari soy sauceEst. price €0.35–€0.65
• 1 tablespoon of delicate light brown sugarEst. price €0.08–€0.15
• 1 package of firm tofu (12 ounces), thoroughly drained (pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture)Est. price €1.80–€3.20
• 3 delicate scallions, finely sliced (separate white and green parts for different uses)Est. price €0.30–€0.60
• 12 earthy shiitake mushrooms, carefully rinsed and dried (remove stems before slicing)Est. price €2.50–€4.00
• 2 pieces of dried kombu (4x3-inch each), for enhancing umami flavors (remove before serving)Est. price €1.50–€2.80
• 1 piece of ginger (3-inch), elegantly peeled and thinly slicedEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• 4 cloves of garlic, freshly peeled and mincedEst. price €0.20–€0.40
• 2 tablespoons of refined vegetable oilEst. price €0.15–€0.30
• A touch of Kosher salt, to tasteEst. price €0.02–€0.05

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce with brown sugar and stir well. Proceed to cut the tofu into 1/2-inch-thick slabs, then further dice them into squares. Use paper towels to pat the tofu dry. Add the tofu to the soy sauce mixture and gently toss until each piece is coated evenly. Allow it to marinate for 20 minutes, tossing occasionally for even flavor distribution.

2. 2

   Begin by slicing the green tops of the scallions thinly and setting them aside. Chop the white parts coarsely and place them in a medium pot. Add mushrooms, kombu, ginger, garlic, and 8 cups of water. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Lower the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes. Take it off the heat and remove the kombu. Allow the dashi to rest for 20 minutes to extract more flavor from the aromatics before removing and discarding scallions, mushrooms, ginger, and garlic.

3. 3

   In a large nonstick skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Cook tofu in batches, if necessary, until it turns golden brown and develops a crisp edge, which should take around 3 minutes on each side. Once cooked, place the tofu on paper towels to drain and season with salt.

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• Cultural note

  This dish is inspired by Asian cuisine, specifically Japanese flavors with ingredients like tofu, shiitake mushrooms, kombu, and sesame oil. Tofu is a staple in many Asian diets and is often used in vegetarian dishes like this one. The use of umami-rich ingredients like tamari soy sauce and shiitake mushrooms adds…

• Seasonal note

  This dish is perfect for fall and winter seasons when mushrooms, bok choy, and root vegetables like carrots are in season. These ingredients are freshest and most flavorful during these times.

• Health note

  Crispy Tofu in Mushroom Broth Simmer is a nutritious dish rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K. The tofu provides protein while the vegetables offer a variety of vitamins and minerals. However, the high sodium content should be noted for those watching their salt intake.