How to Cook Chinese Shrimp with Tofu and Soy Sauce

Cooking Chinese shrimp with tofu and soy sauce is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. This dish combines the tenderness of shrimp with the richness of tofu, all enhanced by the savory depth of soy sauce. Below, we’ll go through the steps to create this delectable dish at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 block of firm tofu, cut into cubes
3 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels, place it on a plate, and put a heavy object on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Tofu

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 seconds. If using, toss in the sliced bell pepper and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Now, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir everything together to ensure even coating. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions. Serve your Chinese shrimp with tofu alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Results:

Ensure the shrimp are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Experiment with adding vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce to the dish.
Using low-sodium soy sauce can help keep the dish healthier.

Cooking Chinese shrimp with tofu and soy sauce is not only straightforward but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe any night of the week for a satisfying meal!