Craving a refreshing and flavorful vegan salad that's both quick to make and bursting with authentic Chinese taste? Look no further than this easy-to-follow recipe for 凉拌豆皮絲 (Liángbàn dòupí sī), or Quick & Easy Chinese Tofu Salad! This vibrant dish features thinly sliced tofu skin, marinated in a tangy and slightly spicy dressing, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It's the ideal side dish for any meal, a light lunch on its own, or a satisfying snack. The ingredients are readily available and the preparation is surprisingly simple, perfect even for beginner cooks.
This delightful salad showcases the versatility of tofu skin, transforming a simple ingredient into a culinary masterpiece. Its subtle flavor profile beautifully absorbs the bold dressing, making each bite a delightful experience. Ready to create this delicious and healthy Chinese tofu salad? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to whip up this irresistible dish!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Tofu sheets (Dou Pi): 130g
- Garlic: 1/2 tbsp
- Red chili powder: 2 tsp (optional)
- Ground Sichuan peppercorn: 1/4 tsp
- Sesame seeds: 1 tbsp
- Cooking oil (rice bran oil recommended): 2 tbsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Light soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Chinese black vinegar (or balsamic vinegar): 1 tbsp
- Toasted sesame oil: 1 tsp
- Red capsicum (bell pepper): null
- Coriander (cilantro): null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu
- Separate the layers of tofu sheets gently. Cut them into strips, resembling noodles.
- Lightly boil the tofu strips in salted water for a couple of minutes to reduce beany flavor and soften them. Then rinse under cold water to cool and prevent sticking.
Step 2. Make the Flavorful Dressing
- In a bowl, combine garlic, chili powder (optional), Sichuan peppercorn, and sesame seeds. Pour hot oil over the spices to extract their flavors.
- Add salt, sugar, light soy sauce, black vinegar, and toasted sesame oil to the spice mixture. Mix well.
Step 3. Combine and Garnish
- Combine the drained tofu strips with the dressing in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly.
- Add julienned red capsicum and chopped coriander. Mix gently.
Step 4. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- For a simplified dressing, use 1 tsp garlic, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp black vinegar, 2 tbsp chili oil, and 1 tsp toasted sesame oil.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, or spring onions.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tofu instead of tofu skin?
While tofu skin gives the best texture for this salad, you can experiment! Firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and thinly sliced, can be a substitute, but the texture will be slightly different.
2. How long can I store the leftover salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more over time!
This Quick & Easy Chinese Tofu Salad is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create a truly memorable dish. Its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect addition to any meal, impressing both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. Enjoy this delicious and healthy vegan recipe!