Spicy Garlic Tofu: Vietnamese Dau Hu Toi

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and exciting dishes, then Vietnamese cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds. One dish that truly encapsulates the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Vietnamese cooking is Spicy Garlic Tofu, known as Dau Hu Toi in Vietnamese. This dish combines crispy tofu, fragrant garlic, and fiery spices to create a mouthwatering experience that will have you coming back for more.

Spicy Garlic Tofu is a popular dish in Vietnam and can be found in restaurants and street food stalls across the country. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course with steamed rice, or as a flavorful side dish to complement a larger spread of Vietnamese dishes. The key to making a delicious Spicy Garlic Tofu lies in getting the perfect balance of flavors and textures, so let’s explore how you can make this dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red chili, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

To start, prepare your tofu by draining it and pressing out any excess water. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and set aside. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and black pepper to create a marinade for the tofu.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and sauté until fragrant. Add the marinated tofu to the skillet, making sure each piece is coated in the flavorful sauce. Cook the tofu until it is crispy and golden brown on all sides.

Once the tofu is cooked, add the sliced red chili to the skillet for a spicy kick. Stir everything together to ensure the tofu is evenly coated in the spicy garlic sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce or sugar if desired.

Transfer the Spicy Garlic Tofu to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions. This dish is best enjoyed hot, served with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables. The combination of crispy tofu, aromatic garlic, and fiery spices makes this dish a true flavor sensation.

Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a delicious plant-based meal or a tofu enthusiast wanting to try something new, Spicy Garlic Tofu is a must-try dish that will take your taste buds on a culinary journey to Vietnam. Give this recipe a try in your own kitchen and experience the bold and exciting flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

So, the next time you’re craving a dish that’s packed with flavor and spice, whip up a batch of Spicy Garlic Tofu and transport yourself to the bustling streets of Vietnam with every mouthful. Your taste buds will thank you for it!