Savoring the Essence: A Traditional Jiangsu Style Braised Tofu Delight

Introduction

Welcome to another culinary journey with us, where we explore the rich and diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine. Today, we will delve into the heart of Jiangsu cuisine, one of the eight major cuisines of China, renowned for its delicate flavors, meticulous preparation, and refined presentation. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making a traditional Jiangsu style braised tofu delight. This dish not only captures the essence of Jiangsu’s culinary tradition but also offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

The foundation of any great dish lies in the quality of its ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:

• 400 grams of firm tofu
• 300 grams of pork belly (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing rice wine
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of white pepper powder
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of ginger, finely chopped
• 1 stalk of spring onion, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• 1 cup of chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Preparation

Before we start cooking, it is essential to prepare all the ingredients and have them ready at hand. This ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.

1. First, cut the tofu into cubes of about 2 inches in size. If you’re using pork belly, slice it thinly.
2. Prepare the marinade by mixing soy sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, sugar, salt, and white pepper powder in a bowl.
3. Marinate the tofu cubes and pork slices (if using) in the mixture for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the ingredients.

Cooking Process

Now that everything is prepped, let’s dive into the cooking process.

1. Heat up the cooking oil in a wok or pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes and stir-fry until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the wok and set aside.
2. In the same wok, add a little more oil if necessary, then sauté the minced garlic and chopped ginger until fragrant. Add the pork slices (if using) and stir-fry until they are cooked through.
3. Return the fried tofu to the wok and pour in the chicken broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Let the tofu simmer in the broth for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of cold water and stir it into the mixture towards the end of cooking.
5. Once the tofu is tender and the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly, sprinkle the chopped spring onions on top for garnish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. It can also be served as part of a larger meal, complemented by other dishes that showcase the richness of Jiangsu cuisine.

For a more authentic experience, consider serving this braised tofu alongside some pickled vegetables or a light salad. The contrast between the savory tofu and the crisp, tangy vegetables enhances the overall dining experience.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (assuming 4 servings):

Calories	Protein	Fat	Carbohydrates
300 kcal	15 g	18 g	12 g

Conclusion

Traditional Jiangsu style braised tofu delight is a testament to the region’s commitment to culinary excellence. By following this recipe, you can bring a touch of Jiangsu’s rich culinary heritage to your own kitchen. Enjoy the subtle balance of flavors and textures that this dish offers, and savor the essence of Jiangsu cuisine.