Craving a comforting yet vibrant Japanese dish? Look no further than Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce, a culinary masterpiece that balances savory umami with delicate sweetness. This recipe delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors: the tender, silken tofu provides a creamy base, perfectly complemented by succulent steamed meat, and all brought together with a rich, nutty sesame sauce. It's a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
This recipe offers a healthy and flavorful alternative to heavier meat-centric dishes, showcasing the versatility of tofu while delivering a substantial and delicious meal. The harmonious blend of ingredients and the simplicity of the steaming method ensure a consistently delicious outcome every time. Ready to create this culinary delight? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Large donut steamer (Mushi Nawa)
- Bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Tray
- Tea strainer
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Meat Topping and Sauce
- Combine all ingredients for the meat topping in a bowl. Knead well until shiny. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
- Combine sesame sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Divide the pork mixture into eight portions and shape each into a small bowl.
Step 2. Prepare and Steam the Tofu
- Lay tofu pieces on a tray. Sprinkle a small amount of katakuriko over the surface of each piece using a tea strainer.
- Place a meatball on top of each tofu piece.
- Arrange the meat and tofu pieces on the steam grate of the pre-heated donut steamer. Cover and steam over medium-high heat for 7-8 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
Step 3. Serve
- Serve on small plates, pour sesame sauce over, and garnish with green onions.
Tips
- The sesame sauce is versatile and can be used with other dishes.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tofu?
Yes! Silken tofu is best for its creamy texture, but firm or extra-firm tofu will also work. Just be sure to press it to remove excess water before cooking.
2. What kind of meat can I use?
Ground meat (pork, chicken, or beef) works well. You can also experiment with thinly sliced chicken breast or other lean proteins.
3. Can I make the sesame sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sesame sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes the whole cooking process even faster.
This Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. The simple preparation method makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while the impressive presentation ensures it's suitable for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make Japanese dish!