Braised Tofu with Eggplant and Shiitakes

This delightful recipe presents a more-or-less traditional Sichuan preparation, combining creamy tofu and soft-cooked eggplant with the delightful crispiness of sautéed shiitake mushrooms. The result is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings the taste of authentic Chinese cuisine to your table. For those seeking a slight twist, green beans can be easily substituted for the eggplant without compromising the overall taste and appeal.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/4 cup peanut or neutral oil (like grapeseed or corn)
• 1 cup sliced shiitake caps (reserve stems for stock or discard)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 1/2 pounds eggplant, trimmed, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks, and salted, rinsed, and dried if you like
• 1 tablespoon Chile Paste , or to taste (optional)
• 1/2 cup stock or water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 pound tofu, prepared by simply blotted dry, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon dark sesame oil (optional)
• Chopped fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
• 2 tablespoons minced scallion for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Put half of the oil in a deep skillet or shallow saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced shiitake caps and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the mushrooms, stirring occasionally, until they become crisp, which should take around 5 to 10 minutes. Once done, remove the shiitakes with a slotted spoon and set them aside.
2. Add the remaining oil to the same skillet or saucepan. Wait a few seconds before adding the chopped garlic and minced ginger (if using). As soon as they start sizzling, add the eggplant to the pan. Cook, stirring every minute or so, until the eggplant browns, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes. If using chile paste, add it now along with the stock. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any stuck bits of eggplant. Continue cooking until the eggplant becomes really tender, which should take another 10 to 15 minutes, adding a little more liquid if necessary.
3. Stir in the soy sauce and the cubed tofu, and cook while stirring occasionally until the tofu is heated through, approximately 5 minutes. Add the reserved shiitake mushrooms back into the pan and turn off the heat. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. For added flavor, you can also add dark sesame oil at this point.
4. To serve, garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves, toasted sesame seeds, and minced scallion, if desired. Enjoy your Braised Tofu with Eggplant and Shiitakes with steamed rice or noodles for a delightful and satisfying meal.

VARIATIONS:

• Braised Tofu with Chicken or Shrimp and Eggplant: For a meaty variation, omit the shiitake mushrooms and replace them with 8 ounces of sliced boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, or peeled shrimp. By incorporating these proteins into the dish, you create a delightful fusion of flavors that will appeal to various palates.
• Braised Tofu with Spicy Ground Pork: For a spicy alternative, skip the shiitake mushrooms and eggplant, and instead, use 1 pound of ground pork, along with the chile paste for an extra kick of heat. Reducing the oil to 2 tablespoons and following the recipe instructions will result in a mouthwatering pork-infused version of this dish.

USES:

• As a delectable main course, serve Braised Tofu with Eggplant and Shiitakes with steamed rice or noodles for a fulfilling and satisfying meal.
• This versatile dish can be incorporated into a wider spread of Chinese-inspired cuisine, complementing other meat or seafood dishes and creating a diverse and delicious menu.
• Leftovers of this dish are equally enjoyable, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or enjoying a tasty lunch the next day.

In conclusion, Braised Tofu with Eggplant and Shiitakes is a wonderful representation of traditional Sichuan cuisine, boasting a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether prepared as per the original recipe or exploring one of the delightful variations, this dish promises to be a delightful culinary experience. With the combination of tofu, eggplant, and shiitake mushrooms, you’re in for a memorable and savory dining experience that will transport you to the heart of Chinese flavors. Enjoy this delightful dish and relish the rich and authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine in the comfort of your own home.