Baked tofu in Beijing-style tomato sauce is a delicious and savory dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Beijing while offering a contemporary twist with the use of tofu. Known for its smooth texture and ability to absorb flavors, tofu has been a staple ingredient in Chinese cooking for centuries. When paired with the tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce typical of Beijing-style dishes, tofu transforms into a mouthwatering meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
This dish combines the simple yet comforting flavor of tofu with the bold and vibrant characteristics of Chinese cuisine, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, or simply someone who enjoys exploring diverse flavors, Baked Tofu in Beijing-style Tomato Sauce is the perfect choice. The balance of savory, sweet, and tangy elements in this dish is what sets it apart, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
The History of Beijing-style Cuisine
Beijing, the capital of China, is known for its rich and diverse food culture, shaped by centuries of royal influence, regional flavors, and historical events. The cuisine of Beijing is often characterized by the use of bold, savory flavors and ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and vinegar. In addition to the famous Peking duck, which is internationally renowned, Beijing also features a variety of delicious home-cooked dishes that reflect its cultural heritage.
Among the most iconic Beijing-style dishes are those that incorporate the earthy flavors of soy products, such as tofu, and the richness of vegetables and meats. The combination of these ingredients is cooked with aromatic spices and sauces to create harmonious and flavorful dishes. Beijing-style tomato sauce is one such sauce that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors. It’s a great accompaniment to tofu, as the soft, absorbent nature of the tofu makes it the perfect vessel to soak up the tangy and aromatic sauce.
The Role of Tofu in Chinese Cuisine
Tofu, or bean curd, is a protein-rich food made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the curds into solid blocks. The versatility of tofu makes it a popular ingredient in various Chinese dishes, whether it is stir-fried, braised, steamed, or even deep-fried. Tofu’s ability to take on the flavors of the ingredients it is cooked with allows it to be used in a wide variety of culinary applications.
In Beijing-style cuisine, tofu is often paired with savory and sweet sauces, with dishes like mapo tofu or braised tofu frequently appearing on menus. Tofu’s smooth, velvety texture contrasts nicely with the rich, umami-packed sauces, making it a satisfying and comforting dish. The tofu used in Beijing-style tomato sauce is typically firm or extra firm, as these types hold their shape well during cooking and absorb the sauce more effectively.
The Flavor Profile of Beijing-style Tomato Sauce
The unique flavor profile of Beijing-style tomato sauce sets it apart from other tomato-based sauces commonly found in Western cuisine. The sauce has a balanced combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, which come from the following key ingredients:
- Tomatoes: The base of the sauce, tomatoes provide a natural sweetness and acidity that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. In Beijing-style tomato sauce, the tomatoes are usually cooked down to create a thick, rich sauce that coats the tofu.
- Soy Sauce: This classic Chinese ingredient adds depth and umami to the sauce. The savory profile of soy sauce balances the sweetness of the tomatoes, giving the sauce its characteristic richness.
- Sugar: A small amount of sugar or honey is often added to Beijing-style tomato sauce to bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and create a balanced flavor profile. The sugar helps mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a harmonious sauce.
- Vinegar: Vinegar is often used in Chinese cooking to add a tangy, slightly sour note that brightens the dish and balances the richness of the soy sauce and sugar. It enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce and gives it a more complex taste.
- Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are staples in Chinese cooking, providing a fragrant, aromatic base to the sauce. The combination of garlic’s pungency and ginger’s warmth adds depth and complexity to the tomato sauce.
- Chili Paste or Sichuan Peppercorns (Optional): While the base of the Beijing-style tomato sauce is typically mild, you can add chili paste or Sichuan peppercorns for an extra kick of heat and spice. The inclusion of these ingredients adds complexity to the dish and gives it a distinctive, bold flavor.
Together, these ingredients create a rich, well-balanced sauce that complements tofu perfectly. The sweetness from the tomatoes and sugar is tempered by the saltiness of the soy sauce and the tanginess of the vinegar, creating a versatile and flavorful sauce that elevates the tofu.
How to Prepare Baked Tofu in Beijing-style Tomato Sauce
Making Baked Tofu in Beijing-style Tomato Sauce is relatively simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients and a few easy steps. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing this delicious dish:
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) firm or extra firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
- Begin by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to ensure the tofu can absorb the sauce and develop a crispy texture when baked. You can press the tofu by placing it between two layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and setting something heavy (like a can or a pot) on top for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (approximately 1-inch pieces).
Step 2: Bake the Tofu
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the tofu with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and toss it gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 3: Make the Beijing-style Tomato Sauce
- While the tofu is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) and tomato paste to the pan. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
- Add the sugar or honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste (if using). Stir to combine and cook the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes until it thickens and becomes rich and flavorful. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional vinegar if needed.
Step 4: Combine Tofu and Sauce
- Once the tofu is baked to your desired crispiness, remove it from the oven and add it directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce.
- Gently toss the tofu in the sauce, making sure each piece is coated evenly with the flavorful tomato sauce.
- Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the sauce and develop a deeper flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the tofu to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve the baked tofu with Beijing-style tomato sauce over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Baked tofu in Beijing-style tomato sauce can be served as a main dish or as part of a larger Chinese meal. The tofu pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables, making it a filling and nutritious meal. For a more complete meal, you can also serve the tofu alongside stir-fried greens such as bok choy or spinach, or with a refreshing cucumber salad.
While the dish is traditionally mild, you can adjust the level of heat by adding more chili paste or Sichuan peppercorns for extra spice. Additionally, the sauce can be enriched with other ingredients such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots, which add more texture and flavor to the dish.
Health Benefits of Baked Tofu in Beijing-style Tomato Sauce
Baked tofu in Beijing-style tomato sauce is not only delicious but also offers a number of health benefits. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. It is also rich in essential minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, which support bone health and overall well-being.
Tomatoes, the base of the sauce, are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which have been shown to have various health benefits, including supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. The ginger and garlic used in the sauce also provide anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to improved digestion.
The combination of tofu and the nutrient-rich tomato sauce makes this dish a healthy, balanced meal that is both filling and nourishing.
Conclusion
Baked tofu in Beijing-style tomato sauce is a flavorful, nutritious, and
versatile dish that brings together the savory and sweet flavors of Beijing-style cuisine with the wholesome goodness of tofu. The crispy tofu cubes, combined with the tangy, aromatic tomato sauce, create a delightful dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, whether they follow a plant-based diet or not.
With its easy-to-follow recipe, vibrant flavors, and health benefits, this dish is a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying and delicious meal. Give it a try and experience the exciting flavors of Beijing-style cooking with a modern tofu twist!
