Braised Tofu with Shrimp (Đậu Hũ Kho Tôm) is a beloved dish in many Asian kitchens, particularly in Vietnamese and Chinese culinary traditions. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of shrimp with the delicate texture of tofu, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Known for its umami-packed sauce and perfect balance of ingredients, this dish is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, protein-rich meal.
In this article, we will explore everything there is to know about Braised Tofu with Shrimp, from its origins and key ingredients to step-by-step instructions on how to prepare it at home. Whether you’re a fan of tofu, shrimp, or both, this dish promises to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
What is Braised Tofu with Shrimp (Đậu Hũ Kho Tôm)?
Braised Tofu with Shrimp (Đậu Hũ Kho Tôm) is a dish that features tofu and shrimp cooked together in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet sauce made with fish sauce, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sugar. The tofu is braised until it absorbs all the flavors of the sauce, while the shrimp adds a burst of sweetness and saltiness. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, with the crispy exterior of the tofu and the tender shrimp creating a delightful contrast.
This dish is typically served with steamed rice and can be enjoyed as part of a family-style meal. It is also a favorite for special occasions, thanks to its complex yet comforting flavors that please the palate.
The Key Ingredients in Braised Tofu with Shrimp
1. Tofu: The Base of the Dish
Tofu is the heart of this dish, providing a soft and creamy texture that soaks up all the flavors of the sauce. The type of tofu you use will affect the final result, with firm tofu or extra-firm tofu being the best options for this recipe. Firm tofu holds its shape well when cooked and absorbs the flavors of the sauce without breaking apart.
Before cooking, it’s essential to press the tofu to remove any excess water. This helps the tofu crisp up when seared and ensures it can better absorb the savory sauce. To press the tofu, simply wrap it in a clean towel and place something heavy on top for 15-20 minutes.
2. Shrimp: A Sweet and Savory Protein
The addition of shrimp is what makes Braised Tofu with Shrimp a special dish. Shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor that complements the tofu’s mild taste. For this dish, it’s best to use small to medium-sized shrimp that are peeled and deveined. You can choose to leave the tails on for a more rustic presentation, or remove them for convenience.
Fresh shrimp works best, but if frozen shrimp is all you have, be sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Shrimp is quick to cook and becomes tender when braised in the sauce, adding a lovely contrast in texture to the tofu.
3. Fish Sauce: The Umami Flavor
Fish sauce is a staple ingredient in Vietnamese cooking and contributes a deep, umami flavor that forms the foundation of the sauce. Made from fermented fish, fish sauce is salty, savory, and adds an authentic taste to the dish. It enhances the natural flavors of the tofu and shrimp while adding richness to the sauce. If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce, but fish sauce is the key ingredient that gives this dish its unique depth of flavor.
4. Soy Sauce: A Salty Base
Along with fish sauce, soy sauce is used to add saltiness and richness to the dish. Soy sauce enhances the overall flavor of the braise and complements the sweetness of the shrimp. For this recipe, light soy sauce is preferred because it has a mild, balanced flavor. Dark soy sauce can also be used for a more intense color and richness, but be sure to adjust the amount to avoid overpowering the dish with saltiness.
5. Ginger and Garlic: Aromatic Bases
Ginger and garlic are essential aromatics that provide a fragrant base to the sauce. Ginger imparts a warm, slightly spicy flavor, while garlic adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the shrimp and the richness of the sauce. Both ingredients should be finely minced or sliced so they infuse the dish evenly.
6. Sugar: Balancing the Saltiness
Sugar is added to balance the salty and umami-rich flavors of the fish and soy sauce. Typically, brown sugar or palm sugar is used in this recipe because of their subtle caramel notes, which pair beautifully with the savory sauce. The sugar also helps to create a glossy finish on the tofu and shrimp when braised.
7. Optional Garnishes: Fresh Herbs
To garnish the dish and add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich sauce, you can top the Braised Tofu with Shrimp with fresh cilantro or scallions. These herbs provide a refreshing note that cuts through the richness of the dish, making each bite even more delightful.
How to Make Braised Tofu with Shrimp
Making Braised Tofu with Shrimp at home is simple and requires only a few key steps. With a bit of preparation, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu (about 400-500g)
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced or sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- Cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
- Chili peppers, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes. Pressing the tofu will help it become crispy when fried and allow it to absorb more of the flavorful braising liquid.
Step 2: Prepare the Tofu
After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. The tofu should be cut into pieces that are easy to braise and absorb the sauce. Set the tofu aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary and sauté the garlic and ginger over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 5: Braise the Tofu
Add the tofu pieces to the pan and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step helps the tofu develop a crispy exterior, which will absorb the braising sauce better.
Step 6: Add the Braising Liquid
Once the tofu is browned, add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir gently to coat the tofu in the sauce. Add water or vegetable broth to create a more liquid base for the braise. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tofu to soak up the flavors.
Step 7: Add the Shrimp
Once the tofu has absorbed the sauce, return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Stir gently to combine, and let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the shrimp can absorb the sauce’s flavor.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the dish is done, transfer it to a serving plate and garnish with cilantro or scallions for a fresh contrast. For an extra kick, you can add some chili peppers to the dish. Serve the Braised Tofu with Shrimp with a bowl of steamed white rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Braised Tofu with Shrimp
- Press the Tofu Well: Pressing the tofu is crucial for getting a crisp exterior and ensuring it soaks up the braising sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp Separately: Fry the shrimp separately before adding it to the tofu to ensure it cooks evenly and retains its tender texture.
- Adjust the Sauce: Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the saltiness or sweetness to suit your preference. You can add more sugar for sweetness or more fish sauce for saltiness.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give the dish a natural sweetness that enhances the flavor of the entire dish. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Serve with Steamed Rice: This dish pairs perfectly with a bowl of fluffy steamed rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce and complements the tofu and shrimp.
Variations of Braised
Tofu with Shrimp
While the traditional Braised Tofu with Shrimp (Đậu Hũ Kho Tôm) recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to tailor it to your taste:
- Add Vegetables: You can incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas into the dish for added color and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add more chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce to make the dish spicier and give it an extra kick.
- Mushroom Addition: For a more umami-rich dish, you can add shiitake mushrooms or oyster mushrooms, which pair beautifully with the tofu and shrimp.
- Substitute Shrimp: If you’re vegetarian or prefer a different protein, you can substitute shrimp with mushrooms, tempeh, or seitan.
Conclusion
Braised Tofu with Shrimp (Đậu Hũ Kho Tôm) is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the best of both the sea and the earth. With its rich, savory sauce and tender tofu and shrimp, it’s a dish that appeals to both tofu enthusiasts and seafood lovers alike. This versatile and simple recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes, making it an ideal addition to your recipe collection.
Next time you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal, give Braised Tofu with Shrimp a try! You’ll be amazed by how easy it is to prepare, and how quickly it becomes a family favorite.