13 Authentic Chinese Tofu Recipes That are Better Than Takeout

Tofu is a good alternative if you’re bored of eating chicken and beef dishes or just trying to add plant-based protein to your dinner. Not like tempeh, tofu is more readily available in most grocery or Asian markets.

There are different types of tofu – firm, soft, and silken tofu to name a few. Be sure to pick the right one you need for these authentic Chinese tofu recipes.

From tasty braised to simple stir-fry to soups, you can prepare a wide range of Chinese tofu recipes that are authentic and taste better than your favorite takeout.

Let’s go!

13 Easy Chinese Tofu Recipes

1. Kung Pao Tofu

Unlike General Tso’s Chicken, Kung Pao is actually an authentic Chinese dish originally from Sichuan Province. So, it’s not Westernized Chinese cuisine. And the best thing, you can make a vegetarian-friendly version of it by using tofu instead.

Stir-fried with crunchy peanuts and using a combination of sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and sugar, creates a sauce that’s spicy, savory, sweet, and sour, this stinky tofu is loaded with contrasting textures and tastes that will keep you going back for more. (Via The Woks of Life)

2. Braised Tofu Sichuan Style

For those who said tofu dishes are bland and boring, this is definitely a great dish to try. To make it, pan-fry the tofu until golden and then braise it with a thick, sweet, and spicy sauce. This dish is perfect over white rice. This is a perfect meatless tofu recipe for a busy night! (Via Red House Spice)

3. Crispy Tofu

You may think that crispy tofu can only be done by deep frying, but you need to think twice. Uses soft tofu, this super easy and simple tofu recipe is served with a homemade thick sauce made with light and dark soy sauce and oyster sauce.

A well-seasoned cast iron pan and just a little bit of vegetable oil are all you need. Thinly coat your sliced tofu with cornstarch and salt mixture and immediately fry it. This recipe is the epitome of crispy on the outside but soft on the inside. (Via The Woks of Life)

4. Hakka Style Stuffed Tofu

Indulge yourself in this flavourful and delicious dish of stuffed tofu. The tenderness of the tofu, the satisfying pork and shrimp filling, and the rich, savory flavors of the sauce, all come together to create a truly delicious experience.

Takes only 30 minutes to make, and these tofu cubes stuffed are going to be a staple in your home. (Via Red House Spice)

5. Mapo Tofu

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch, Mapo tofu is definitely it. This dish is a Chinese classic recipe of simmered tofu and ground pork in a tasty, spicy sauce, and it’s absolutely incredible.

The simmered tofu pieces soak up all the flavor this dish offers — spicy, garlicky, and umami. The recipe calls for chili oil, makes the sauce fiery and has spicy flavors. If you can handle the heat, you’ll absolutely love this dish. (Via Went Here 8 This)

6. Salt and Pepper Tofu

Are you looking for Chinese-inspired starters that are very simple to make? I’ve got one for you, it’s Salt and Pepper Tofu, or Jiao Yan Dou Fu. One of the delicious recipes that give a very delightful signal to your taste buds.

By combining crispy tofu with a simple mix of seasonings of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, ground white pepper, sand ginger powder, and Sichuan peppercorns, you can experience many exquisite sensations. With only a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that can satisfy many people. (Via The Woks of Life)

7. Sweet Tofu Pudding or Douhua (豆花)

Just because tofu is usually a popular ingredient in so many Chinese restaurants, especially for savory dishes, that doesn’t mean that you can’t make a great dessert out of it.

The main ingredients are very simple: soy milk, sugar, and gelatin. And for the syrup is mainly brown sugar, water, and ginger slices.

All you need to do is add the milk, sugar, and gelatin into a saucepan over medium heat and wait until bubbling, after that cover it with plastic wrap then refrigerate it overnight. A nice, silky dessert after a savory meal. (Via Oh My Food Recipes)

8. One Pot Tofu and Egg

Don’t have time to cook some Chinese dishes but craving Chinese food? Then I’ve got a perfect solution for you.

It’s a simple addicting dish that you can make in under 30 minutes. Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, so it is perfect for a quick yet nutritious meal. Not only is this budget-friendly, but it is fresher and healthier too. You are going to love this egg and tofu! (Via China Sichuan Food)

9. Sichuan Hot Tofu

Another tofu recipe that you can make in under 30 minutes is Sichuan Hot Tofu. What makes this tofu recipe exciting is the addition of cumin powder and coriander that make you can feel the savoriness at the tip of your tongue. You can also get creative by adding red pepper flakes.

But the Sichuan peppercorns top everything off with their own ability to make your mouth go numb. Don’t worry, it’s a good kind of numbing sensation that keep you wanting more. If you love spicy food, then add this quick & favorable hot tofu dish to your list of Asian tofu recipes. (Via China Sichuan Food)

10. Tomato Tofu Soup

Nothing beats a bowl of hot soup during a cold month, and this tofu soup is sure will warm your body and soul.

Has a simple yet complex flavor, and the slight tangy flavors from the tomatoes pair perfectly with the silky eggs in the soup. Its sweetness complements the savory elements in the soup. This soup is perfect for those who don’t like tomatoes because it’s not as tomato-forward as some other dishes. This recipe will become a new favorite! (Via Made With Lau)

11. Silken Tofu with Black Bean Mushroom Sauce

The secret to cooking authentic Chinese recipes like this tofu in black bean sauce recipe is the sauce. Fortunately, you don’t need to prepare it from scratch thanks to a little help from Lee Kum Kee.

Rice vinegar, chili powder, mushroom water, cold water, green onion, and dried shiitake mushrooms are other ingredients you need to complete this recipe. Surely your family will love this amazing dish. (Via The Foodie Takes Flight)

12. Tofu Sheet Stir Fry

Have you ever tried Chinese recipes made with tofu sheets? Or have you heard about tofu sheets before? I bet you haven’t, because me too! Made with boneless pork loin, green peppers, white pepper, cornstarch, Shaoxing wine, and soy sauce. This homestyle dish from Hubei province is a must-try. (Via The Woks of Life)

13. Steamed Tofu with Minced Prawn

Impress your family and friends by making this elegant yet simple dish. This Chinese-style seafood dish is full of nutrients and will give your taste buds flavors bursting out in your mouth. The minced meat is super flavorful thanks to the marinade. It consists of egg white, cornflour, white pepper, and salt.

Save this recipe to your back pocket so you can make this next time when you have to prepare a delicious dish in no time. (Via Christine’s Recipes)

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