Tofu with Black Bean Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare and Coat the Tofu

   • Cut the well-pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
   • Add the tofu cubes and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
2. 2

   Shallow-Fry the Tofu

   • Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the coated tofu cubes in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if needed.
   • Fry for 6-8 minutes, turning the cubes every couple of minutes, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
   • Using a slotted spoon, remove the tofu and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. 3

   Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

   • In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil if needed.
   • Add the chopped garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the cubed onion and capsicum. Continue to stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
4. 4

   Build the Black Bean Sauce

   • Add the rinsed and crushed fermented black beans to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute to release their pungent, savory aroma.
   • Pour in the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and vegetable broth. Add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
   • Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. 5

   Thicken the Sauce and Combine

   • In a small bowl, whisk the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry with no lumps.
   • While stirring the sauce, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to stir for about 1 minute as the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
   • Gently return the fried tofu to the wok. Toss carefully to coat all the tofu pieces with the thickened sauce.
6. 6

   Garnish and Serve

   • Turn off the heat. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the dish and give it one final toss.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped spring onion greens.
   • Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.