Are you looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for any time of day? Look no further than steamed tofu! This versatile ingredient can be seasoned and flavored in countless ways to create a diverse range of dishes that are both delicious and good for you. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering steamed tofu recipes that showcase the incredible flavor and texture possibilities of this healthy staple.
From classic combinations like silken steamed tofu with soy ginger sauce to more adventurous pairings like steamed tofu with fermented chili paste, these recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, you’ll find inspiration in these simple yet flavorful dishes.
Silken Steamed Tofu with Soy Ginger Sauce
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy vegetarian option, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer. Silken steamed tofu pairs perfectly with the savory and aromatic soy ginger sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the silken tofu into small cubes and place them in a steamer basket.
2. Steam the tofu for 10-12 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of softness.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Serve the steamed tofu with the soy ginger sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (steaming) + 1 minute (blending)
Steamed Tofu with Garlic and Scallions
This simple recipe brings together the creamy texture of tofu, the pungency of garlic, and the crunch of scallions for a flavorful and healthy dish. Perfect as a side or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a steamer basket, place the tofu cubes.
2. In a separate pot, bring 2-3 inches of water to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and place the steamer basket over the boiling water.
4. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
5. While the tofu is steaming, sauté the garlic and scallions in a small pan with a little oil until fragrant.
6. Remove the tofu from the steamer and toss with the garlic-scullion mixture, soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Steamed Tofu with Chili Oil
Elevate your tofu game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the tender texture of steaming with the spicy kick of chili oil. Perfect as a quick snack or addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1-2 teaspoons of chili oil (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, place tofu cubes in a steamer basket, and steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil.
4. Remove tofu from steamer and brush with the spicy oil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Mushrooms and Bok Choy
A simple yet flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the creaminess of tofu, earthiness of mushrooms, and sweetness of bok choy. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual stems and leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large steamer basket with the tofu, mushrooms, and bok choy.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Pour over the ingredients in the steamer basket.
3. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the tofu is lightly set.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Miso Glaze
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of steamed tofu and the savory depth of a miso glaze, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into cubes and place in a steamer basket.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and rice vinegar.
3. Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
5. Remove the tofu from the steamer and brush with the warm miso glaze.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the creaminess of steamed tofu with the savory richness of black bean sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cooked black beans
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Steam the tofu cubes in a steamer basket over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add the cooked black beans, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the steamed tofu with the black bean sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Sesame and Green Onions
A simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the versatility of tofu, paired with the nutty taste of sesame and the crunch of green onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place a steamer basket over it.
2. Place the tofu cubes in the steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Remove the tofu from the steamer and place it on a plate. Drizzle the sesame oil mixture over the tofu.
5. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top of the tofu.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Pickled Vegetables
This simple and flavorful recipe combines the creaminess of steamed tofu with the tanginess of pickled vegetables, making it a great side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the tofu cubes.
2. Steam the tofu over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, combine the vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cucumbers, carrots, and red onion to the pickling liquid. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. Serve the steamed tofu with the pickled vegetables spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Lemongrass and Lime
This refreshing recipe combines the tender texture of steamed tofu with the bright, citrusy flavors of lemongrass and lime. Perfect as a light and healthy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tofu, lemongrass stalks, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and steam for 8-10 minutes or until the tofu is tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and soy sauce (if using).
4. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Fermented Chili Paste
Elevate your tofu game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of steamed tofu with the bold heat of fermented chili paste. Perfect as a side dish or added to a variety of Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tbsp of fermented chili paste (gochujang)
– 2 tbsp of soy sauce
– 1 tsp of sesame oil
– 1 tsp of sugar
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine tofu cubes and 1 inch of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tofu is tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together chili paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Once the tofu is cooked, remove from steamer and toss with the chili paste mixture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Ginger and Soy Dressing
This recipe combines the simplicity of steaming tofu with the bold flavors of ginger and soy sauce, creating a delicious and healthy dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into cubes and place them in a steamer basket.
2. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sliced ginger.
4. Once the tofu is cooked, remove it from the steamer and toss it with the ginger-soy dressing.
5. Season with salt to taste, and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Shrimp and Snow Peas
This classic Chinese-inspired dish combines the creaminess of steamed tofu with the sweetness of shrimp and crunchy snow peas, all wrapped up in a flavorful and healthy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh snow peas, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium-sized pot with about an inch of water.
2. Add the tofu cubes to a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
3. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
4. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Add the snow peas to the same pan and cook for an additional minute, until tender but still crisp.
6. Combine the steamed tofu, cooked shrimp, and snow peas in a serving dish.
7. Drizzle with soy sauce and sprinkle with minced garlic.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Coconut and Turmeric
This recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare tofu, elevating it from a humble protein source to a vibrant and aromatic dish. The combination of coconut milk and turmeric adds a creamy and warm flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a steamer basket, place the tofu cubes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, water, turmeric, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture over the tofu, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Steam the tofu for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Experience the creamy and nutty flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple and nutritious dish. Steaming tofu preserves its delicate texture, while a rich peanut sauce adds depth and indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, and water.
2. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the tofu is tender.
3. Meanwhile, in a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve the steamed tofu with the peanut sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Kimchi and Gochujang
This recipe combines the creamy texture of steamed tofu with the bold flavors of kimchi and gochujang, a Korean chili paste. The result is a harmonious balance of spicy, sour, and savory notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons kimchi, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a steamer basket, place the tofu pieces.
2. Steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the tofu is cooked through and slightly tender.
3. Meanwhile, whisk together gochujang, kimchi, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
4. Remove the tofu from the steamer and brush with the spicy glaze.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Sweet Soy Glaze
A classic Asian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next meal. This recipe combines the creamy texture of steamed tofu with a sweet and savory soy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
3. Meanwhile, steam the tofu cubes in a steamer basket set over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
4. To assemble, place the steamed tofu on a plate and brush with the sweet soy glaze. Garnish with minced garlic and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Five-Spice Powder
This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates plain tofu to a new level by infusing it with the warm, aromatic flavors of five-spice powder. Perfect as a side dish or added to stir-fries and noodle bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the tofu cubes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, and five-spice powder until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture over the tofu, making sure each cube is coated.
4. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and lightly tender.
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil (if using).
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Basil and Chili
This refreshing dish combines the creamy texture of steamed tofu with the bright flavors of basil and chili. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it’s also a great option for those looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the water and tofu. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tofu is tender.
2. While the tofu is cooking, mix together the chopped basil and chili flakes in a small bowl.
3. Once the tofu is cooked, remove from the pot with a slotted spoon and place on a plate.
4. Sprinkle the basil-chili mixture evenly over the tofu.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Hoisin and Garlic
This simple yet flavorful dish pairs tender steamed tofu with a savory sauce made from hoisin, garlic, and soy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the tofu cubes in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
2. Steam the tofu over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly firm to the touch.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and water until smooth.
4. Add the minced garlic to the sauce and stir well.
5. Remove the steamed tofu from the heat and brush with the hoisin-garlic sauce.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Edamame and Seaweed
This Japanese-inspired dish is a nutritious and flavorful combination of protein-packed tofu, edamame, and nutrient-rich seaweed. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons dried wakame seaweed, rehydrated in water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized pot, combine tofu, edamame, rehydrated seaweed, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and steam for 10-12 minutes or until the tofu is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional seaweed if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 mouth-watering steamed tofu recipes! From classic combinations like Silken Steamed Tofu with Soy Ginger Sauce and Steamed Tofu with Garlic and Scallions, to bold and spicy options like Spicy Steamed Tofu with Chili Oil and Fermented Chili Paste, there’s something for every palate. Explore the world of Asian-inspired flavors with Miso Glaze, Black Bean Sauce, and Pickled Vegetables, or go global with Coconut and Turmeric, Peanut Sauce, and Kimchi and Gochujang. Whether you’re a tofu newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to delight!
Leave a Reply