How to Make Chinese-style Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce

Chinese-style tofu with sweet and sour sauce is a delicious dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors. Making this dish at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create a memorable meal that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

To make Chinese-style tofu with sweet and sour sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 block of firm tofu
  • 1 cup of bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare your Chinese-style tofu with sweet and sour sauce:

1. Prepare the Tofu

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the tofu absorb the flavors better.

2. Cut and Marinate

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl, gently toss to coat, and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

3. Cook the Tofu

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully add the marinated tofu cubes. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add sliced onion and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. Then, add the pineapple chunks and stir everything together.

5. Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and cornstarch. Mix until smooth. Pour this sauce over the vegetables in the skillet, and stir well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and gently toss everything to coat the tofu in the sweet and sour sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chinese-style tofu with sweet and sour sauce over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your homemade dish that’s not only delicious but also rich in nutrients!

Conclusion

This simple recipe for Chinese-style tofu with sweet and sour sauce is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. With its vibrant colors and flavorful taste, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.