Braised Firm Tofu with Bitter Melon and Fermented Black Bean Sauce

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   Drain and press firm tofu to remove excess water. Cut into 2cm cubes. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Pan-fry tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. 2

   Cut bitter melons lengthwise, scoop out seeds and white pith. Slice into 0.5cm thick crescent shapes.

3. 3

   In the same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and sliced ginger. Stir-fry until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add fermented black beans and mash lightly with the back of a spoon. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until aromatic.

5. 5

   Add bitter melon slices to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.

6. 6

   In a small bowl, combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper.

7. 7

   Pour the prepared sauce and water or vegetable broth into the wok. Bring to a simmer.

8. 8

   Return the pan-fried tofu cubes to the wok. Gently stir to coat.

9. 9

   Cover the wok and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and bitter melon to soften further.

10. 10

    In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water (for slurry) to create a slurry. Stir into the simmering sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency.

11. 11

    Serve hot with steamed rice.