Tofu in minced meat sauce

Delicious Tofu in Ground Meat Sauce Recipe

Looking for a simple and quick recipe that is sure to impress? Tofu in ground meat sauce is a perfect choice, combining textures and flavors for a delicious result. This recipe is not only a burst of tastes but also a great way to incorporate healthy and nutritious ingredients into your meals. With a total preparation time of about 1 hour, you'll get 4 generous servings, ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Recipe History
Tofu, a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, has been used for centuries due to its versatility. Its origins are closely tied to culinary traditions that emphasize the balance of flavor and health. Combined with ground meat, tofu offers a unique texture and depth of flavor, transforming a simple meal into a memorable culinary experience.

Essential Ingredients
- 100g olive oil
- 200g organic ground beef (max 10% fat)
- 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice blend
- 1 large garlic clove
- A 2 cm piece of ginger
- 1/2 organic beef stock cube
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 75g black bean sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon hot sauce (Sriracha or your favorite)
- Soy sauce, to taste
- 240g cooked rice (for serving)
- 175g tofu
- 100g frozen peas
- 1 green onion
- 1/2 chili (optional)
- Lime, for serving

Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour

Preparing the Delicious Recipe

1. Cooking the Meat
Start by heating a wok over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef, stirring frequently. Sprinkle the Chinese five-spice blend over the meat, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for 15 minutes until the meat is tender and slightly browned.

2. Adding the Flavors
Peel the ginger and garlic, then chop them finely. Add them to the wok with the meat, along with the 1/2 beef stock cube, cornstarch, black bean sauce, and 1/2 tablespoon of hot sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

3. Simmering the Sauce
Pour 250 ml of water into the wok and let the mixture simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.

4. Cooking the Tofu and Peas
While the sauce is simmering, cut the tofu into 1 cm cubes. Boil it in a pot of hot water for 4 minutes, along with the frozen peas. Once cooked, drain them well and add them to the wok, stirring gently to avoid breaking the tofu.

5. Adjusting the Flavor
Taste the sauce and adjust with soy sauce if needed. This is where you can customize the recipe by adding more hot sauce if you prefer a bolder flavor.

6. Serving
Serve the dish hot alongside the cooked rice. Top with sliced green onions, thin chili slices, and a squeeze of lime for an extra touch of freshness. This is the perfect time to personalize your plate!

Serving Suggestions and Variations
For an even more interesting meal, you can add fresh vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots during cooking. A delicious alternative would be to replace the ground beef with chicken or turkey. If you want a vegetarian version, reduce the amount of meat and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or broccoli.

Nutritional Information
This recipe is rich in protein due to the beef and tofu, providing a good supply of essential amino acids. Additionally, the peas add fiber and vitamins. One serving contains approximately 450 calories, depending on the ingredients and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use firm tofu instead of soft tofu?
Yes, firm tofu provides a better texture and will hold up better during cooking.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more hot sauce or slices of fresh chili.

3. What side dish pairs best?
Rice is ideal, but you can also try quinoa or a fresh vegetable salad for a refreshing contrast.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! This tofu in ground meat sauce recipe is more than just a simple dish; it's an opportunity to explore flavors and textures, customize, and enjoy a delicious meal with loved ones. Bon appétit!