"Vegetarian Chinese Tofu Recipes: The Zen Twist

(Updated Version)

Tofu love? It's real, and these days, the options are endless. Back in the day, you’d grab the traditional tofu from the market, soaking in water, but those days are over for me. The taste just isn’t what it used to be. So, I’ve switched to Japanese tofu—yeah, it’s a bit pricier, but the flavor? Totally worth it. Plus, it makes cooking a breeze, even the simplest dishes turn out mouthwateringly good. Right now, I’m all about Chinese-style tofu dishes. And guess what? More and more Chinese folks are going vegetarian (CHINESE STYLE LONG BEANS), joining the Indian crowd. Is it for health? Or maybe because vegetarians get a fast pass to heaven while people like me might be headed somewhere hotter? Who knows? Dang (CHINESE VEGETARIAN NOODLE DISHES & CHINESE CHILI CASHEW VEGGIES).

 

Tofu Cooking Tips with a Zen Twist

Soft Tofu

Appropriate for steaming or microwaving because of its delicate, custard-like texture. But be careful - it’s fragile. I’ve had soft tofu crumble on me just by taking it out of the package, so handle it gently.

Denser Tofu

Ideal for soups or curries since it holds its shape better. I learned the hard way that stirring too much after adding tofu can cause it to break apart, so once it’s in, I leave it alone. And if you’re planning to serve soup later, add the tofu right before serving to avoid overcooking.

 

Short Shelf Life

Tofu doesn’t last long. I always make sure to cook it within a day or two after pulling it out of the fridge. No one likes spoiled tofu.

 

Eggless Tofu

If you’re avoiding eggs, like vegetarians do, just swap egg tofu with an eggless version. I’ve tried both, and the eggless tofu works just as well.

 

Zen Touch

Adding herbs and spices brings out the best in tofu. Fresh herbs, in particular, elevate the dish and your Zen senses. Want some Zen in your life? Come by Nava’s Zen - I’m happy to share our organic herbs from my urban garden with anyone who appreciates Zen cooking.

 

These are the little tricks and stories that have made my tofu dishes not just meals, but experiences full of flavor and Zen vibes.

Recipes

Crispy Fried Tofu with Chili Sauce

Cut tofu into cute little pieces, sprinkle salt and fry them up crispy. 

Serve hot with chili sauce. 

These crispy bites? 

I call them the diamonds of my tofu dishes.

Chinese Style Sweet and Sour Tofu

Ingredients

1 block tofu – sliced

1 red onion – sliced

1 large tomato – sliced

Chili sauce – as needed

Butter mushroom – sliced

Some spring onion – sliced

Lime juice - as needed 

½ cup water

Salt to taste

Oil as needed

Method
Heat oil, fry tofu on both sides, and set aside.

Reduce oil to 2 tablespoons, then sauté onion and tomato.

Pour in chili sauce and water, stir, and add tofu and mushrooms.

Season with salt, and lime juice mix, and finish with spring onion.

Chinese Style Soy Sauce Tofu

Ingredients

2 packs of Japanese tofu – cut into rounds

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce

4 shallots – thinly sliced

1/2 inch ginger – thinly sliced

Chili flakes – as needed

Spring onion – sliced

2 tbsp oil

Salt to taste

Method

Fry shallots till crispy, set aside.

Sauté ginger in the same oil, add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili flakes.

Pour in 1/2 cup water, season with salt, and simmer.

Add tofu, simmer for a minute or two, and dish out.

Garnish with fried shallots and spring onion.

Microwaved Steamed Soy Tofu

1 block soft white tofu – microwave for a minute.

Mix soy sauce with water, add salt if needed, and pour over tofu.

Top with sliced chilies and spring onion.

Steamed Tofu with Oyster Sauce

Steam a block of white tofu for 2 minutes

Pour vegetarian oyster sauce on top

Add fried shallots and spring onion

Cooking tofu with spinach? It’s pure magic. Tofu Spinach Stir Fry is a household favorite. All you need is tofu, spinach, garlic, oil, and salt. Easy and delicious!