Crispy Tofu in Shiitake Broth

Ingredients for Crispy Tofu in Shiitake Broth

• 60ml plus 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar

• 1 (350g) package firm tofu, drained

• 3 spring onions

• 12 shiitake mushrooms, rinsed, patted dry

• 2 (4x3-inch) pieces dried kombu

• 1 (3-inch) piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced

• 4 garlic cloves

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Kosher salt

• 4 baby bok choy (about 350g total), halved lengthwise

• 2 medium carrots, peeled, thinly sliced into rounds

• 1 small radish, trimmed, thinly sliced into rounds

• Toasted sesame oil (for serving)

How to make Crispy Tofu in Shiitake Broth

Stir 60ml soy sauce and brown sugar in a medium bowl. Cut tofu into 1/2"-thick slabs and then into squares. Pat dry with paper towels. Add tofu and toss to coat. Let sit, tossing occasionally, 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, remove green tops from spring onions and very thinly slice; set aside. Coarsely chop white parts and place in a medium pot. Add mushrooms, kombu, ginger, garlic, and 1925ml water and bring to a simmer over medium-high. Reduce heat to low and cook 10 minutes. Remove from heat; discard kombu. Let dashi sit 20 minutes (this will coax more flavour from aromatics), then fish out and discard spring onions, mushrooms, ginger, and garlic.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet, preferably nonstick, over medium-high. Cook tofu, working in batches if needed, until golden brown and crisp around edges, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to drain; season with salt.

While tofu is cooking, bring dashi to a boil. Add bok choy and carrots and cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Add remaining 2 tablespoons soy sauce; taste and season with more salt if needed.

Ladle soup into bowls and add tofu, radishes, and reserved spring onion tops; drizzle with sesame oil.

Dashi can be made 3 days ahead. Let cool; cover and chill, or freeze up to 3 months.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.