Braised Tofu with Sea Vegetables

Braised Tofu with Sea Vegetables is a delectable vegan dish that showcases the umami flavors of the ocean through tender tofu and nutrient-rich sea greens. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a seafood-inspired meal without compromising on their plant-based lifestyle.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu - 300 grams
• Dried seaweed (such as wakame or kombu) - 20 grams
• Vegetable broth - 250 ml
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
• Green onions - 2, chopped
• Mushrooms (shiitake or oyster) - 100 grams, sliced
• Carrot - 1 medium, julienned
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for slurry)

Steps

1. Soak the dried seaweed in warm water for about 10 minutes until softened, then drain and set aside.
2. Cut the firm tofu into cubes and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and julienned carrot to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Add the cubed tofu to the skillet, followed by the soaked seaweed, vegetable broth, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it braise for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. After braising, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
8. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm over steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbs: 30 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from tofu, promoting muscle health.
• Contains omega-3 fatty acids and minerals from sea vegetables, supporting heart health.

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