Delicious Sweet and Sour Tofu with Bean Sprouts and Fresh Herbs Recipe

If you’re a fan of tofu, this sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs recipe is a must-try. The combination of savory, tangy and sweet flavors will delight your taste buds, while the bean sprouts and herbs provide a fresh crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also vegetarian and packed with protein. Read on for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions.

The history and origins of sweet and sour tofu dishes

Legend has it that sweet and sour dishes originated from ancient Chinese cooking techniques, where chefs would use vinegar and sugar to balance the flavors of their dishes. Over time, this method was passed down through generations and found its way into various cuisines, including the popular sweet and sour tofu dish. The dish typically consists of tofu cubes fried to perfection and coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce. Bean sprouts are usually added in for some added texture and crunch, while fresh herbs like cilantro and green onion are used to garnish. Today, sweet and sour tofu is a staple in many vegetarian and vegan diets, and remains a beloved dish all around the world.

DISH	COUNTRY	INGREDIENTS	PREPARATION METHOD
Chinese Sweet and Sour Tofu	China	Tofu, bell pepper, pineapple, onion, garlic, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, pepper	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté vegetables, add sauce and cornstarch, and cook until thickened. Combine with tofu and serve hot.
Thai Tofu Pad Preaw Warn	Thailand	Tofu, pineapple, bell pepper, onion, garlic, tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, oil, salt	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté vegetables, add tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, and season to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs.
Japanese Nasu Dengaku	Japan	Tofu, eggplant, miso paste, sake, mirin, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil	Grill eggplant and tofu until lightly charred, mix miso paste with sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce. Spread over tofu and broil until golden brown. Serve hot with sesame oil.
Korean Dubu Jorim	South Korea	Tofu, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, green onion, sesame seeds, sesame oil, water	Cut tofu into bite-sized pieces, sauté garlic and green onion, add soy sauce, sugar, and water. Add tofu and simmer until tender. Garnish with sesame seeds and sesame oil.
Indonesian Tahu Telur	Indonesia	Tofu, eggs, shallots, garlic, red chilies, tamarind paste, palm sugar, soy sauce, oil	Mash tofu and eggs, sauté shallots, garlic, and chilies, add tamarind, palm sugar, soy sauce, and season to taste. Pour mixture over tofu and steam until set. Serve hot.
Vietnamese Tau Hu Xao Ca Chua	Vietnam	Tofu, tomato, onion, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, oil, salt, pepper	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté onion and garlic, add tomato, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook until sauce thickens. Combine with tofu and serve hot with rice.
Filipino Tokwa’t Baboy	Philippines	Tofu, pork belly, onion, garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, salt, pepper	Cube tofu and pork, sauté onion and garlic, add vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add tofu and pork and simmer until tender. Serve hot and garnish with green onions.
Indian Aloo Gobi Tofu	India	Tofu, potatoes, cauliflower, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt	Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, add tomato and vegetables, and cook until tender. Add tofu and cook until heated through. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Malaysian Tofu Sambal Goreng	Malaysia	Tofu, green beans, coconut milk, shallots, garlic, red chilies, lemongrass, belacan (shrimp paste), tamarind paste, oil	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté shallots, garlic, chilies, and lemongrass, add shrimp paste, tamarind, and coconut milk. Add green beans and tofu and cook until heated through.
Sri Lankan Fried Tofu with Onion Sambol	Sri Lanka	Tofu, onion, tomato, chili powder, garlic, salt, pepper, oil	Slice tofu and fry until crispy, sauté onion, garlic, and tomato, add chili powder and season to taste. Serve hot with onion sambol.
Cambodian Tofu Lok Lak	Cambodia	Tofu, cucumber, tomato, onion, garlic, lime juice, sugar, fish sauce, oil, salt, pepper	Slice tofu and fry until crispy, arrange on a bed of sliced cucumber and tomato, sauté onion and garlic, add lime juice, sugar, and fish sauce, and season to taste. Serve hot over tofu.
Laotian Tofu Larb	Laos	Tofu, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, chili paste, shallots, garlic, mint leaves, cilantro, scallions, lettuce leaves	Cube and fry tofu until crispy, mix lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili paste, sauté shallots and garlic. Combine everything in a bowl and mix well. Serve hot with lettuce leaves.
Bangladeshi Tofu Bhuna	Bangladesh	Tofu, onion, tomato, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, oil	Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, add tomato and cook until soft, add tofu and cook until heated through. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Nepalese Tofu Jalfrezi	Nepal	Tofu, bell pepper, onion, tomato, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, oil	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, add bell pepper and tomato. Cook until tender. Add tofu and cook until heated through. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Burmese Tofu Salad	Myanmar/Burma	Tofu, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, shallots, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, chili powder, peanuts	Cube and fry tofu until crispy, arrange on a bed of sliced lettuce and vegetables, sauté shallots and garlic, add lime juice, fish sauce, and chili powder. Pour over tofu and garnish with peanuts.

The benefits of including tofu in your diet

Did you know that including tofu in your diet can have numerous benefits? Not only is it a great source of protein, but it is also low in calories and packed with important nutrients such as calcium, iron, and manganese. Tofu is also known to help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, it is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs to stir-fries and salads. So why not give this plant-based protein a try and see the health benefits for yourself?

How to make your own sweet and sour sauce from scratch

If you’re tired of buying pre-made sweet and sour sauce from the store, why not try making your own from scratch? With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that’s perfect for adding flavor to stir-fries, tofu, and more. Start by combining sugar, vinegar, and ketchup in a saucepan and simmering for a few minutes. Then add in some soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. For extra flavor, you can experiment with different types of vinegar and add in spices like cumin or chili powder. Once you’ve perfected your recipe, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff again. Enjoy your homemade sweet and sour sauce with your sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs, drizzled over rice, or as a dipping sauce for your favorite appetizers!

INGREDIENT	MEASUREMENT	OPTIONAL	NOTES
Rice vinegar	1/2 cup	N/A	Substitute white vinegar if needed
Brown sugar	1/2 cup	N/A	Adjust to taste
Ketchup	1/4 cup	N/A	Use organic ketchup if possible
Soy sauce	2 tbsp	N/A	Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred
Cornstarch	1 tbsp	N/A	Helps thicken the sauce
Pineapple juice	1 cup	N/A	Use fresh if possible
Red pepper flakes	1 tsp	Optional	Add more if you like it spicier
Garlic	2 cloves	Optional	Finely minced
Ginger	1 tsp	Optional	Grated or finely chopped

The nutritional value of bean sprouts and their health benefits

Bean sprouts are low calorie, fat-free, and high nutritional value food. These sprouts contain dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, riboflavin, iron, magnesium, and potassium. The high fiber content found in bean sprouts can help to keep you feeling full for longer and promote digestive health. The vitamins and minerals found in bean sprouts supports healthy immune function, strong bones, and cardiovascular health. In particular, vitamin K found in bean sprouts is important for blood clotting and bone health. Additionally, the antioxidants found in bean sprouts may help protect against cell damage caused by oxidative stress. Overall, incorporating bean sprouts into your diet can provide numerous health benefits.

BEAN SPROUT TYPE	CALORIES (PER 100G)	PROTEIN (G) (PER 100G)	FAT (G) (PER 100G)
Mung Bean	30	3	0.4
Soy Bean	122	12	6
Alfalfa	23	3.99	0.69
Radish	16	1.6	0.1
Red Lentil	106	10.5	0.4
Chickpea	364	19	6
Black Bean	151	9	0.9
Adzuki Bean	131	7.5	0.2
Lentil	116	9	0.4
Pea	81	5.4	0.4
Wheat	30	2.8	0.2
Garbanzo	164	9	2.6
Soybean	446	36	20
Pea Shoots	59	5.2	0.5
Garnet Yam	116	0.6	0.2

Creative ways to incorporate herbs into your cooking

Herbs have always been an essential part of cooking, adding flavors, aromas and colors that transform even the simplest dishes. But what if we took herbs to a whole new level and got creative with them? Here are some bursty and perplexing ideas to incorporate herbs into your cooking:

1. Herb-infused oils: Instead of using plain vegetable oil for cooking, infuse it with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to add extra layers of flavor to your dishes. You can use these oils to marinade meat or fish, toss vegetables, or drizzle over salads.
2. Herbal cocktails: Who says herbs are only for savory dishes? Mix up your cocktail game by incorporating herbs like mint, basil, or lavender into your drinks. Whether you’re making a mojito or a margarita, herbs can add a refreshing twist to your favorite cocktails.
3. Herbal ice cream: Yes, you read that right! You can infuse herbs like basil, lavender, or sage into your ice cream base for a unique and unexpected treat. Serve it alongside warm fruit compote or a chocolate sauce for a bursty flavor experience.
4. Herbal salts: Take your seasoning game to the next level with herbal salts. Mix together coarse sea salt with chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage and sprinkle over grilled meats or roasted vegetables for an added punch of flavor.
5. Herbal desserts: Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender can add a bursty element to sweet treats like cakes, tarts, and cookies. Use them in your batter, frosting, or simply as a garnish for an unexpected and perplexing flavor explosion.

The best cooking methods for tofu to achieve its signature texture

Tofu is a versatile and delicious ingredient, but achieving its signature texture can be tricky. To get the perfect texture, it’s important to use the best cooking methods. One popular method is to pan-fry or stir-fry the tofu. This method gives the tofu a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Another method is to bake the tofu in the oven. This method results in a slightly firmer texture, making it perfect for dishes that require a little more structure. For a softer and creamier texture, try simmering the tofu in a flavorful broth or sauce. And if you have a grill, grilling the tofu is a great way to add a smoky flavor and achieve a chewy texture. Whatever method you choose, make sure to press the tofu first to remove any excess water and use high-quality, firm tofu for the best results.

Variations on sweet and sour tofu using different vegetables or protein sources

Get ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride with these variations on sweet and sour tofu! While bean sprouts and fresh herbs are an excellent addition, there are plenty of other vegetables and protein sources that can make this dish just as delicious. For a delectable twist on this classic recipe, try adding juicy pineapple or tangy bell peppers, or opt for hearty mushrooms or protein-packed tempeh instead of tofu. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and spice levels to find the perfect sweet and sour balance. One thing is for sure – with so many options for customization, every meal will be a new adventure!

Pairing sweet and sour tofu with complimentary side dishes and beverages

As you plan your meal with sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs as the main dish, it is important to consider the pairing of complimentary side dishes and beverages before you begin cooking. Surprise your taste buds with a burst of flavors and mixes. Consider pairing with a side of steamed broccoli with garlic sauce to balance the sweet and sour taste of the tofu, or stir-fried mushrooms with baby bok choy for added texture. As for beverages, consider a cold glass of lychee juice to balance the heat and spiciness of the dish, or a hot cup of jasmine tea for a refreshing taste. Experiment with a variety of complimentary side dishes and beverages to add new flavors to your meal and create a unique dining experience.

Alternatives to traditional fried tofu for a healthier option

You may know and love traditional fried tofu, but did you know there are plenty of healthier and equally delicious alternatives? One option is baked tofu, which allows you to achieve a crispy outside and tender interior without the added oil. Simply cut the tofu into desired shapes, season with your favorite herbs and spices, and bake for 20-25 minutes until crisp. Another alternative is pan-seared tofu, which involves lightly coating the tofu in cornstarch before searing in a non-stick pan until golden brown. This method creates a satisfying crunch without the need for deep-frying. Lastly, try marinating tofu in a mixture of tangy flavors such as the sweet and sour sauce used in our sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs recipe. This not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the tofu, making it a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional fried tofu. Give these methods a try for a healthier twist on a tofu favorite!

The cultural significance of sweet and sour tofu in Asian cuisine

Sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs is a dish with a complex cultural significance in Asian cuisine. The dish has a rich history and has been a staple of many Asian cultures for centuries. It has been passed down through generations and is associated with many different celebrations and rituals. Sweet and sour tofu is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who consume it. The dish is a fusion of different cooking techniques and ingredients from various Asian cuisines, which makes it a perfect representation of the diversity of Asian cultures. Its flavors are a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser and a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The use of bean sprouts and fresh herbs adds freshness and crunch to the dish, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Olive oil is great for frying and it is an ideal ingredient for making sweet and sour tofu as it adds a unique flavor and richness to the dish. Overall, sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs is a dish that represents a rich cultural heritage and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

DISH	COUNTRY	INGREDIENTS	PREPARATION METHOD
Chinese Sweet and Sour Tofu	China	Tofu, bell pepper, pineapple, onion, garlic, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, pepper	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté vegetables, add sauce and cornstarch, and cook until thickened. Combine with tofu and serve hot.
Thai Tofu Pad Preaw Warn	Thailand	Tofu, pineapple, bell pepper, onion, garlic, tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, oil, salt	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté vegetables, add tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, and season to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs.
Japanese Nasu Dengaku	Japan	Tofu, eggplant, miso paste, sake, mirin, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil	Grill eggplant and tofu until lightly charred, mix miso paste with sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce. Spread over tofu and broil until golden brown. Serve hot with sesame oil.
Korean Dubu Jorim	South Korea	Tofu, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, green onion, sesame seeds, sesame oil, water	Cut tofu into bite-sized pieces, sauté garlic and green onion, add soy sauce, sugar, and water. Add tofu and simmer until tender. Garnish with sesame seeds and sesame oil.
Indonesian Tahu Telur	Indonesia	Tofu, eggs, shallots, garlic, red chilies, tamarind paste, palm sugar, soy sauce, oil	Mash tofu and eggs, sauté shallots, garlic, and chilies, add tamarind, palm sugar, soy sauce, and season to taste. Pour mixture over tofu and steam until set. Serve hot.
Vietnamese Tau Hu Xao Ca Chua	Vietnam	Tofu, tomato, onion, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, oil, salt, pepper	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté onion and garlic, add tomato, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook until sauce thickens. Combine with tofu and serve hot with rice.
Filipino Tokwa’t Baboy	Philippines	Tofu, pork belly, onion, garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, salt, pepper	Cube tofu and pork, sauté onion and garlic, add vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add tofu and pork and simmer until tender. Serve hot and garnish with green onions.
Indian Aloo Gobi Tofu	India	Tofu, potatoes, cauliflower, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt	Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, add tomato and vegetables, and cook until tender. Add tofu and cook until heated through. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Malaysian Tofu Sambal Goreng	Malaysia	Tofu, green beans, coconut milk, shallots, garlic, red chilies, lemongrass, belacan (shrimp paste), tamarind paste, oil	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté shallots, garlic, chilies, and lemongrass, add shrimp paste, tamarind, and coconut milk. Add green beans and tofu and cook until heated through.
Sri Lankan Fried Tofu with Onion Sambol	Sri Lanka	Tofu, onion, tomato, chili powder, garlic, salt, pepper, oil	Slice tofu and fry until crispy, sauté onion, garlic, and tomato, add chili powder and season to taste. Serve hot with onion sambol.
Cambodian Tofu Lok Lak	Cambodia	Tofu, cucumber, tomato, onion, garlic, lime juice, sugar, fish sauce, oil, salt, pepper	Slice tofu and fry until crispy, arrange on a bed of sliced cucumber and tomato, sauté onion and garlic, add lime juice, sugar, and fish sauce, and season to taste. Serve hot over tofu.
Laotian Tofu Larb	Laos	Tofu, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, chili paste, shallots, garlic, mint leaves, cilantro, scallions, lettuce leaves	Cube and fry tofu until crispy, mix lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili paste, sauté shallots and garlic. Combine everything in a bowl and mix well. Serve hot with lettuce leaves.
Bangladeshi Tofu Bhuna	Bangladesh	Tofu, onion, tomato, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, oil	Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, add tomato and cook until soft, add tofu and cook until heated through. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Nepalese Tofu Jalfrezi	Nepal	Tofu, bell pepper, onion, tomato, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, oil	Fry tofu until crispy, sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, add bell pepper and tomato. Cook until tender. Add tofu and cook until heated through. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Burmese Tofu Salad	Myanmar/Burma	Tofu, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, shallots, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, chili powder, peanuts	Cube and fry tofu until crispy, arrange on a bed of sliced lettuce and vegetables, sauté shallots and garlic, add lime juice, fish sauce, and chili powder. Pour over tofu and garnish with peanuts.

What is sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs?

Sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs is a vegan Asian-inspired dish made with crispy tofu, fresh bean sprouts, and a flavorful sweet and sour sauce. It is often served with fresh herbs for added flavor.

How do I make sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs?

To make sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs, you will need firm tofu, bean sprouts, green onions, fresh herbs like cilantro and mint, and a sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch. First, you will need to fry the tofu until crispy, then add the vegetables and sauce, and cook until the sauce thickens. Finally, serve the dish with fresh herbs on top.

Is sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs vegan?

Yes, sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs is a vegan dish made with tofu and vegetables. However, be sure to check the ingredients of your sauce to ensure it is also vegan-friendly.

What other vegetables can I use in sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs?

You can use a variety of vegetables in sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs, such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or snap peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.

What can I serve sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs with?

Sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs can be served on its own as a main dish or with steamed rice or noodles. You could also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

In conclusion, sweet and sour tofu with bean sprouts and fresh herbs is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of the tangy sweet and sour flavors, the crunchy bean sprouts, and the fragrant herbs make for a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this dish is definitely worth a try!