Braised Chinese Vegetables is a flavorful and nutritious dish that showcases the vibrant flavors and textures of various vegetables. This recipe combines dried Chinese mushrooms, firm tofu, straw mushrooms, bamboo shoots, mangetout, and Chinese leaves, creating a delightful medley of flavors. The vegetables are stir-fried and then braised in a savory sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors and become tender and delicious. This dish is a perfect option for vegetarians and vegetable lovers looking to enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine. Follow the simple steps below to create this flavorful and wholesome dish that will add a touch of Asian flair to your dining experience.
INGREDIENTS:
- 15g/1/2oz dried Chinese mushrooms
- 225g/8oz firm tofu, cubed
- 50ml/2fl oz vegetable oil
- 75g/3oz straw mushrooms
- 75g/3oz sliced bamboo shoots, drained
- 50g/2oz mangetout, topped and tailed
- 175g/6oz Chinese leaves such as pak choi, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon soft brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
PREPARATIONS:
- Soak the dried Chinese mushrooms in cold water for 20-25 minutes. Drain the mushrooms, discarding any hard stalks.
- Harden the tofu pieces by placing them in a wok of boiling water for about 2 minutes. Remove and drain.
- Empty the water from the wok and wipe it dry. Heat the vegetable oil in the wok and lightly brown the tofu pieces on both sides. Remove the tofu with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
- Stir-fry the straw mushrooms, bamboo shoots, mangetout, and shredded Chinese leaves in the wok for 1 1/2 minutes.
- Add the tofu, salt, soft brown sugar, and light soy sauce to the wok. Continue stirring for 1 minute.
- Cover the wok and braise the vegetables and tofu for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Braised Chinese Vegetables immediately.
YIELD:
- Serves 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Customize the dish by adding other vegetables of your choice, such as baby corn or water chestnuts.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
TIPS:
- If fresh Chinese mushrooms are available, you can substitute them for the dried Chinese mushrooms. Simply clean and slice them before stir-frying.
- Use firm tofu to maintain its shape and texture during cooking.
- Be careful not to overcook the vegetables, as they should retain their vibrant color and slight crunch.
In conclusion, Braised Chinese Vegetables is a delightful dish that brings together a variety of vegetables in a savory and flavorful combination. The recipe features dried Chinese mushrooms, firm tofu, straw mushrooms, bamboo shoots, mangetout, and Chinese leaves, creating a delicious medley of textures and flavors.
This dish showcases the essence of Chinese cuisine, with stir-fried vegetables and tofu braised in a savory sauce. The braising process allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors and become tender and delicious.
Braised Chinese Vegetables is a perfect choice for vegetarians and vegetable lovers looking to enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine. The recipe is easy to follow and uses readily available ingredients.
Customize the dish by adding other vegetables of your choice, such as baby corn or water chestnuts, to enhance the variety of flavors and textures. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
Serve the Braised Chinese Vegetables immediately to enjoy the vibrant colors, tender vegetables, and savory flavors. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Try this recipe and experience the delightful flavors of Chinese cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
