Can I use firm or extra-firm tofu instead of silken tofu for this recipe?

This recipe specifically calls for silken tofu to achieve its delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture when steamed. Firmer tofus would result in a different consistency and may require longer steaming times.

What is the purpose of heating the garlic and canola oil in the microwave?

Heating the garlic in canola oil until golden brown infuses the oil with a rich, aromatic garlic flavor, which then forms the base of the savory drizzle for the steamed tofu.

Is sweet soy sauce essential, or can I substitute it?

Sweet soy sauce adds a distinct depth and subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes in this dish. While you could omit it, the flavor profile would change; consider adding a pinch of sugar to regular soy sauce if you must substitute.

How should I serve this Chinese Steamed Tofu?

This dish is best served immediately after drizzling the hot garlic sauce, ensuring the tofu is warm and the scallions are fresh. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or other simple vegetable sides.

Can I make this steamed tofu ahead of time or store leftovers?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate texture of steamed silken tofu and the hot sauce. While leftovers can be refrigerated, the texture may change, and the sauce is ideally served warm.

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Chinese Steamed Tofu
[Vegan]

AJ By: Anita Jacobson

Author Bio

Vegan recipes featuring unique flavors from Indonesia, China, Japan, and other Asian countries. Cook, photographer, and... Read More

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Delicately steamed silken tofu on a white plate, generously drizzled with a golden garlic-soy sauce and topped with vibrant green scallion ribbons.

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Chinese Steamed Tofu [Vegan]

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This Chinese steamed tofu will be your go-to recipe when you're in a hurry to prepare something for lunch or dinner. Silken tofu is steamed for five minutes and then served in a garlicky, umami sauce, then topped with scallions. When it comes to toppings, you can play with all... Read More

Ingredients You Need for Chinese Steamed Tofu [Vegan]

1 14-ounce block silken tofu
1 scallion, green part chopped into 2-inch ribbons, white part thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce

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How to Prepare Chinese Steamed Tofu [Vegan]

Prepare a steamer. Place the tofu on a steam-proof plate and steam for 5 minutes. Drain the liquid from the plate that collects during steaming.
In a microwave-proof bowl, combine garlic and canola oil. Heat on 450 Watts for 3 minutes, or until the garlic turns golden brown. Remove from microwave, add soy sauce and sweet soy sauce, and mix well.
Arrange scallion on top of the tofu and drizzle the garlic sauce onto it. Serve immediately.