Steamed Tofu with Savory Sauce
A classic Chinese dish featuring silky, delicate steamed tofu bathed in a fragrant, savory sauce. The final drizzle of sizzling oil over fresh aromatics awakens the flavors, creating a simple, elegant, and healthy meal ready in under 15 minutes.
For 2 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Steam Tofu
- b.Carefully remove the silken tofu from its package, draining any excess water. Do not press it.
- c.Place the entire block on a heatproof, shallow dish with a lip to catch the sauce.
- d.Set up a steamer over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, place the dish with the tofu inside.
- e.Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes until the tofu is heated through and jiggly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Mix the Sauce
- b.While the tofu steams, in a small bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, water, Shaoxing wine (if using), sugar, toasted sesame oil, and white pepper. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare Aromatics
- b.After the tofu has steamed for 8-10 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the steamer. There will be hot water pooled around the tofu from steaming; carefully pour this water out.
- c.Scatter the separated scallion whites, julienned ginger, and sliced garlic evenly over the top of the hot steamed tofu.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Sizzle and Serve
- b.In a small saucepan, heat the neutral oil over high heat until it is shimmering and just beginning to smoke (about 1-2 minutes).
- c.Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture evenly around the base of the tofu.
- d.Immediately and carefully pour the sizzling hot oil directly over the scallions, ginger, and garlic on top of the tofu. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the oil hits the aromatics.
- e.Garnish with the reserved scallion greens and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Tofu Choice: Silken or soft tofu provides the best texture for this dish. If you can't find it, firm tofu will work, but the texture will be denser.
- 2Handle with Care: Silken tofu is very delicate. Handle it gently to prevent it from breaking apart.
- 3Sizzling Oil is Key: Don't skip the final step of pouring hot oil over the aromatics. This flash-cooks them, releasing an incredible fragrance that defines the dish.
- 4Safety First: Be extremely careful when pouring the hot oil. It will spatter. Pour slowly and steadily.
- 5Don't Over-steam: Over-steaming can make the tofu slightly tough. 8-10 minutes is usually perfect.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Add finely chopped red chilies or a teaspoon of chili oil (like Lao Gan Ma) over the tofu along with the other aromatics before pouring the hot oil.
Mushroom ToppingMushroom Topping
Sauté some shiitake mushrooms in a little soy sauce and place them on top of the tofu before steaming for an extra umami layer.
Protein BoostProtein Boost
Add some cooked ground pork or chicken to the sauce, simmering it until cooked through before pouring it over the tofu.
Different SauceDifferent Sauce
Instead of a soy-based sauce, try a sauce made with oyster sauce, or a fermented black bean sauce for a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Plant-Based Protein
Tofu is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it a fantastic option for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
Promotes Heart Health
Tofu is low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. Studies suggest that soy protein can help lower levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Rich in Isoflavones
Soy products like tofu are rich in isoflavones, which are plant compounds with antioxidant properties. They may help protect against certain types of cancer, improve bone health, and reduce menopausal symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Steamed Tofu with Savory Sauce contains approximately 280-320 calories, depending on the exact type of tofu and oil used.