Tofu in Tomato Sauce

Chinese Tofu in Tomato Sauce 

Introduction

Tofu in Tomato Sauce, or "Qie Zhi Dou Fu ", is a comforting Chinese home-style dish that combines tender tofu with a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy tomato sauce. The dish is light yet satisfying, packed with plant-based protein and the fresh flavor of ripe tomatoes. It’s perfect for pairing with steamed rice for a wholesome and nutritious meal.

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Ingredients

• Soft or medium-firm tofu – 1 block (about 400 g)

• Fresh tomatoes – 2 to 3 medium (or 1 cup of canned diced tomatoes)

• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

• Ginger – 1 small piece, minced (optional)

• Green onions – 2, chopped (for garnish)

• Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon (optional, for richer color and flavor)

• Salt – ½ teaspoon (or to taste)

• Sugar – 1 teaspoon (balances the acidity)

• Soy sauce – 1 teaspoon

• Cornstarch – 1 teaspoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water)

• Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons

• Water – about 100 ml (½ cup)

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the tofu

1. Gently rinse the tofu and pat it dry with a paper towel.

2. Cut it into even cubes (about 2 cm each).

3. (Optional) To prevent breaking during cooking, you can lightly pan-fry the tofu:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan.

   • Add the tofu cubes and fry each side until lightly golden.

   • Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the tomato sauce

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and stir-fry until fragrant.

3. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Add tomato paste, sugar, salt, soy sauce, and water.

5. Let the sauce simmer for about 3–5 minutes until the tomatoes break down into a thick sauce.

Step 3: Combine tofu and sauce

1. Gently add the tofu cubes into the tomato sauce.

2. Stir lightly so the tofu is evenly coated, being careful not to break the pieces.

3. Let it simmer together for another 5 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the tomato flavor.

Step 4: Thicken the sauce

1. Stir the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and pour it into the pan.

2. Gently mix until the sauce slightly thickens and clings to the tofu.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — add a bit more sugar or soy sauce according to your preference.

Step 5: Serve

1. Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions on top, and gently mix.

2. Serve hot with a bowl of steamed rice or as part of a Chinese family meal.

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Tips

• For a spicier version, add a small spoon of chili paste or diced red chili when frying the garlic.

• You can replace fresh tomatoes with canned crushed tomatoes when not in season.

• Medium-firm tofu gives the best texture — soft inside but holds shape well.

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Flavor Profile & Benefits

This dish is characterized by a sweet and tangy tomato flavor, balanced with the silky texture of tofu.
It’s low in fat, high in protein, and rich in lycopene (from tomatoes) — perfect for a light, healthy meal that still tastes comforting and satisfying.