Quick & Easy Simmered Tofu with Green Onions (5-Minute Recipe)

Craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy vegetarian meal? Look no further than this simple simmered tofu recipe with green onions! This 5-minute dish is perfect for busy weeknights or anyone looking for a satisfying, plant-based protein source. The delicate sweetness of the tofu perfectly complements the sharp bite of the green onions, creating a surprisingly complex flavor profile that belies its simplicity. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this dish is all about effortless elegance.

Using just a handful of readily available ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that's both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. The tender tofu, infused with savory broth and aromatic green onions, is a complete meal in itself, or a fantastic side dish to complement your favorite grains or rice. Ready to dive into this incredibly easy recipe? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Tofu
  • Green onions
  • Bonito flakes
  • Ginger
  • Soy sauce: >1ml
  • Mirin
  • Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prep and Sauté

  • Wash and chop green onions, including the green parts.
  • Cut the tofu into smaller pieces to increase surface area for better flavor absorption.
  • Add the tofu to a frying pan over heat. Even if water comes out, keep pouring it in.
Wash and chop green onions, including the green parts.Cut the tofu into smaller pieces to increase surface area for better flavor absorption.Add the tofu to a frying pan over heat. Even if water comes out, keep pouring it in.
Prep and Sauté

Step 2. Simmer with Seasoning

  • Add soy sauce, mirin, and a little water to the pan.
  • Add ginger and green onions.
  • Cover the pan and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Add soy sauce, mirin, and a little water to the pan.Add ginger and green onions.Cover the pan and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Simmer with Seasoning

Step 3. Finish and Serve

  • After 5 minutes, stir everything together. It's okay if the tofu crumbles a little.
  • Turn off the heat and add bonito flakes.
  • Mix well and serve.
After 5 minutes, stir everything together. It's okay if the tofu crumbles a little.Turn off the heat and add bonito flakes.Mix well and serve.
Finish and Serve

Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe

Tips

  • Cutting the tofu into smaller pieces allows for quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.
  • Adding a little water helps balance the strong flavor of soy sauce and mirin.
  • Don't worry if the tofu crumbles slightly; it will still be delicious.
  • Enjoy with rice and optional additions like grated daikon radish and ponzu sauce, or shichimi/sansho pepper.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables besides green onions?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy during the last minute of simmering.

2. What kind of tofu is best for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape well during simmering. Pressing the tofu beforehand helps remove excess water for a better texture.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.


This quick and easy simmered tofu recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying a simple meal can be. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you've created a healthy and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious, 5-minute masterpiece!