In the hustle and bustle of life, finding a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome can be a challenge. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the art of Shrimp Stuffed Tofu—an elegant fusion that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. The moment I first tasted this dish, I was captivated by the luscious texture of silky tofu enveloping a savory shrimp filling, complemented by a rich, fragrant sauce.
One lazy afternoon, I had a few ingredients left in my fridge and decided to experiment. What began as a simple cooking challenge turned into a flavorful adventure that quickly became a family favorite. This recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating a comforting experience that brings people together around the dinner table.
Perfect for those who crave home-cooked meals without hours spent in the kitchen, this Shrimp Stuffed Tofu can be prepared in under 10 minutes! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to spice up your weeknight dinners, let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into something magical.
Why is Stuffed Tofu a Must-Try?
Unique Flavor Combination: The creamy tofu and succulent shrimp unite for an irresistible medley of tastes.
Time-Saving Dish: With a cook time of only 7-8 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet delight in no time!
Versatile Base: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies for a personalized twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for impressing guests or bringing joy to a simple weeknight dinner.
Comforting Experience: Each bite delivers warmth and familiarity, making it an instant family favorite. Don’t miss out on this delectable experience—your taste buds will thank you!
Stuffed Tofu Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dish!
For the Tofu
- 2 egg tofu – if you can’t find egg tofu, firm tofu works just as beautifully!
For the Shrimp Filling
- 10 large shrimp – make sure they are peeled and de-veined for the best outcome.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the flavor of the shrimp filling significantly.
- Pinch of white pepper – adds a hint of warmth without overwhelming the dish.
- ½ teaspoon sugar – balances the savory notes for a richer taste.
- ½ teaspoon corn starch – helps bind the filling together for a perfect texture.
- ½ tablespoon olive oil – provides moisture and a subtle flavor to the filling.
- ½ green onion – thinly sliced for a fresh, crunchy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ginger (optional) – adds a zing to the shrimp filling for extra depth.
For the Sauce
- ½ cup water – the base for creating your delicious sauce.
- ½ tablespoon oyster sauce – brings a savory umami flavor that elevates the dish.
- ½ tablespoon soy sauce – adds a salty kick to the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons corn starch – this thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- ½ teaspoon chicken bouillon (optional) – boosts flavor, perfect for home-style cooking.
With these simple yet impactful ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a sensational Stuffed Tofu dish that everyone will adore!
How to Make Stuffed Tofu
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Chop the shrimp until it forms a smooth paste. This will help create a delicious filling that’s easy to scoop into the tofu.
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Combine the shrimp paste with salt, white pepper, sugar, corn starch, olive oil, optional ginger, and sliced green onions in a bowl. Mix everything until well integrated and set aside to let the flavors meld.
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Slice the egg tofu into 2-inch thick pieces. Place them gently on a steaming plate and carefully scoop a small amount out from the center to create a pocket for the filling.
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Sprinkle a little corn starch inside the tofu pockets to help the shrimp filling adhere better. Then, spoon about 1 teaspoon of shrimp mixture into each pocket and press it down gently.
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Steam the stuffed tofu on high heat for 7-8 minutes. After steaming, pour out any excess water to keep it light and fluffy.
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Prepare the sauce by stirring water, oyster sauce, soy sauce, corn starch, and optional chicken bouillon in a bowl. Pour this mixture into a saucepan and heat on medium, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Serve the sauce over the steamed stuffed tofu while it’s warm. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Optional: Garnish with additional sliced green onions for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Stuffed Tofu Variations
Get ready to explore fun twists on this beloved dish!
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Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms or crumbled tempeh for a plant-based option. It retains that lovely umami flavor, making it satisfying.
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Spicy: Add minced chili peppers or a dash of Sriracha to the shrimp filling for a delightful heat that complements the tofu beautifully. It’s a perfect way to awaken your palate!
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Herbed: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling. This brightens the dish, adding a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances each bite.
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Nutty: Mix in some chopped water chestnuts or toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and texture. The nutty flavor will create a delightful contrast to the tender tofu.
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Coconut Cream: Swap out the water for coconut milk in the sauce for a creamy, tropical twist. This gives a new depth of flavor that dances on your taste buds.
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Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the filling for a vibrant citrus note that brightens the entire dish. It adds a lovely zing that brightens up your palate.
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Cheesy: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the filled tofu before steaming for a rich, gooey finish. It melds beautifully with the other flavors for extra indulgence.
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Asian Fusion: Use hoisin sauce instead of oyster sauce for a more complex flavor profile. It adds a sweet and savory touch that’s oh-so-delicious!
With these variations, you can unleash your creativity and make this Stuffed Tofu your own!
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Tofu
Room Temperature: Stuffed Tofu is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can sit out at room temperature for up to 1-2 hours. Keep it covered during this time.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, separate the sauce and stuffed tofu before storing.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the stuffed tofu (without sauce) in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a steamer or microwave on low power until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook the shrimp filling. Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Tofu warm for the best experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Stuffed Tofu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and mix the shrimp filling and store it refrigerated for up to 3 days before cooking, which saves valuable time during busy weeknights. Also, feel free to slice and hollow out the tofu, keeping it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to prevent excessive moisture. When you’re ready to indulge, simply fill the tofu with the shrimp mixture, steam for 7-8 minutes, and prepare the sauce. This way, your dinner will be just as delicious and satisfying as if you made it from scratch, all while reducing your evening cooking time!
Expert Tips for Stuffed Tofu
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Perfect Consistency: Ensure your shrimp paste is finely minced for a smooth filling. This prevents any tough textures in your stuffed tofu.
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Steaming Technique: Use a shallow dish to steam the tofu, allowing for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the steaming plate for best results.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the sugar and salt according to your taste preferences. A pinch more sugar can enhance the sauce’s umami flavor in the stuffed tofu.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like cilantro or more green onions can elevate the presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this simple finishing touch!
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment! Substitute shrimp with your favorite proteins or add finely chopped veggies to the filling for a unique twist.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure a standout Stuffed Tofu experience that’s both delicious and impressive!
What to Serve with Shrimp Stuffed Tofu?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that complement this charming dish beautifully.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice provides a perfect canvas to soak up the rich sauce of the stuffed tofu, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Light Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas add a crisp, fresh contrast, enhancing the meal’s overall texture and nutritional value.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting counterpart, enveloping your senses with umami goodness that pairs well with shrimp flavors.
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Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavors of sesame noodles intertwine delightfully with the soft tofu, creating a harmony of tastes that leaves you wanting more.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing not only cleanses the palate but adds a vibrant crunch, making each bite feel light and invigorating.
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Chilled Sake: This smooth beverage brings out the umami in the shrimp filling, making it an ideal beverage to sip alongside your scrumptious meal.
These side dishes are not just complements, but rather part of the joyful experience that is Shrimp Stuffed Tofu. Enjoy crafting a vibrant and satisfying meal!
Shrimp Stuffed Tofu Recipe FAQs
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
I recommend using egg tofu for its rich flavor and creamy texture, but firm tofu is a great alternative if egg tofu isn’t available. Just ensure to scoop out some of the center to create pockets for the shrimp filling!
How do I store leftover Shrimp Stuffed Tofu?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the stuffed tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to separate the sauce from the tofu to maintain its texture. Just reheat each portion when you’re ready to enjoy, and you’re all set!
Can I freeze Shrimp Stuffed Tofu?
Absolutely! If you’d like to prepare in advance, you can freeze the stuffed tofu (without the sauce) in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a steamer or microwave on low heat.
What should I do if the shrimp filling is too loose?
If you find your shrimp filling is a bit too loose, don’t worry! Simply add a small amount of corn starch, about 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach a paste-like consistency. This will help the filling hold its shape when stuffed into the tofu.
Is this dish safe for my pets or individuals with seafood allergies?
While Shrimp Stuffed Tofu is delicious for humans, it’s not suitable for pets, especially due to the shrimp. If preparing for someone with seafood allergies, I suggest substituting shrimp with other proteins like chicken or mushrooms that are safe and flavorful alternatives!
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, it could be due to the heat being too low or not whisking enough. Ensure you’re whisking constantly while the sauce cooks on medium heat. If needed, mix a tablespoon of corn starch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then slowly add it to the sauce while continuing to whisk. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a beautifully thickened sauce!
Delicious Shrimp Stuffed Tofu for a Homemade Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the shrimp until it forms a smooth paste.
- Combine the shrimp paste with salt, white pepper, sugar, corn starch, olive oil, optional ginger, and sliced green onions in a bowl. Mix until well integrated.
- Slice the egg tofu into 2-inch thick pieces and scoop out the center to create pockets.
- Sprinkle corn starch inside the tofu pockets, spoon shrimp mixture into each, and press down gently.
- Steam the stuffed tofu on high heat for 7-8 minutes, then pour out excess water.
- Prepare the sauce by stirring water, oyster sauce, soy sauce, corn starch, and optional chicken bouillon in a bowl, then heat until thickened.
- Serve the sauce over the steamed stuffed tofu while warm.