There is so much to love about this braised tofu with mushrooms and spinach because it is quick, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The tofu turns golden and tender, the mushrooms add earthy depth, and the spinach melts right into a savory soy garlic sauce that tastes like it simmered much longer than it actually did. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, plant forward meals, or anyone who wants a cozy Asian inspired dish made from simple pantry ingredients!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Keyword braised tofu, tofu
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 20 minutesminutes
Servings 4servings
Author Winnie Kison
Ingredients
1block firm or extra firm tofupressed and cut into 2" squares
2cupssliced mushrooms
2cupsfresh spinach or baby spinach
2clovesgarlicminced
1tablespoonneutral oil
Sauce:
3tablespoonssoy sauce
1tablespoonoyster sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce
1tablespoonbrown sugar or honey
1teaspoonsesame oil
2tablespoonswater
1teaspoonrice vinegar or mirin
1tablespooncornstarchmixed with 1-2 tablespoons water
Red pepper flakes or chili oiloptional
Instructions
Heat oil in a large pan and add the tofu. Cook until all sides are golden and lightly crisp.
Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Stir for 2 to 3 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, water, and vinegar if using. Pour the sauce into the pan and let everything simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Add the spinach and gently toss until it wilts.
Add in cornstarch mixture. The sauce will reduce slightly, thicken and coat the tofu and veggies.
Serve warm over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.