Imagine a dish that combines the silky smoothness of tofu with the savory richness of ground pork, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Asian cuisine. This Steamed Tofu with Pork is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that promises to be both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious food enthusiast, this recipe will become your new go-to comfort meal that's both nutritious and utterly irresistible.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, sliced
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu by carefully draining and patting it dry with paper towels. Slice the tofu block into 1/2-inch thick rectangular pieces, arranging them gently on a heat-proof serving plate.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork with chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the ground pork.
- Spread the seasoned ground pork mixture evenly over the top of the tofu slices, ensuring complete coverage and creating a thin layer of meat.
- Prepare a steamer by filling the bottom pot with about 2 inches of water. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the plate with tofu and pork into the steamer basket, ensuring it sits level and does not touch the water directly.
- Cover the steamer and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the ground pork is completely cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the plate from the steamer using heat-resistant tongs or mitts.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chopped green onions and a light drizzle of sesame oil before serving hot with steamed rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tofu: Always use firm tofu for this recipe. It holds its shape better during steaming and provides a perfect base for the meat mixture.
- Pat Tofu Dry: Thoroughly drain and pat the tofu with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures a better texture and helps the seasonings adhere more effectively.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with seasonings. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper creates a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special.
- Even Meat Distribution: When spreading the ground pork mixture, aim for an even, thin layer that covers the entire tofu surface for consistent cooking and flavor.
- Check Meat Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground pork reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Steaming Technique: Ensure your steamer doesn't touch the water and maintains a gentle, consistent steam for the most tender result.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the steamer, paired with fluffy steamed rice to soak up all the delicious juices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 50mg
