Egg and Tofu Stir-Fry: A Delicious and Nutritious Dish

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its vibrant and diverse range of dishes, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Among the many beloved dishes in Vietnam, Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ (Egg and Tofu Stir-Fry) stands out as a flavorful and nutritious choice that is simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying. The combination of trứng (eggs) and đậu hũ (tofu) creates a dish that is both hearty and healthy, providing a perfect balance of protein, texture, and flavor.

Whether you are new to Vietnamese cuisine or a seasoned food enthusiast, Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ is a dish that will please anyone looking for a wholesome meal with a delightful blend of ingredients. In this article, we will explore the origins of this dish, its essential ingredients, how to make it at home, and how to customize it according to your preferences. So, let’s dive into the world of Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ and learn how to prepare this delightful dish.

The Origins of Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ

Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ is a humble yet flavorful dish that reflects the essence of Vietnamese home cooking. The combination of eggs and tofu is widely enjoyed across Vietnam, particularly in rural areas where these ingredients are affordable and nutritious. It is a dish that can be easily prepared using locally available ingredients and is loved by people of all ages.

Tofu, known as đậu hũ in Vietnamese, has been a staple in Vietnamese kitchens for centuries, particularly in vegetarian cooking. It is often paired with other protein-rich ingredients such as eggs, vegetables, and seasonings to create a satisfying meal. Eggs, on the other hand, are commonly used in a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes, from soups to stir-fries, adding richness and flavor to meals.

In Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ, eggs and tofu come together in a stir-fry, creating a comforting dish that is both filling and easy to prepare. The dish is often enjoyed with steamed rice and can be served as part of a larger meal or as a standalone dish.

Essential Ingredients for Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ

The beauty of Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Below are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this dish:

1. Tofu (Đậu Hũ)

The star ingredient in this dish is tofu, or đậu hũ in Vietnamese. Tofu is made from soybeans and is a versatile protein source that has a subtle taste and a soft, creamy texture. For Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ, firm tofu is the best choice, as it holds its shape during stir-frying and gives a satisfying bite.

Tofu can be found in most grocery stores, and it’s essential to press it before cooking to remove excess water. This helps the tofu retain its texture and absorb the seasonings better.

2. Eggs (Trứng)

Eggs are the other primary ingredient in this dish. They add richness and flavor to the stir-fry, as well as a lovely golden color. Depending on your personal preference, you can use whole eggs or just the egg whites for a lighter version of the dish.

3. Vegetables

To enhance the flavor and add color to the dish, Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ often includes a variety of vegetables. Common vegetables used in this dish include onions, garlic, green onions, carrots, bell peppers, and spinach. These vegetables contribute freshness and texture, balancing the richness of the eggs and tofu.

4. Seasonings

The key seasonings in Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ include soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and salt. These ingredients add depth and umami to the dish, making it flavorful and savory. Some variations also include sugar to provide a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy and fish sauces.

Freshly ground black pepper and a dash of sesame oil can also be used to enhance the flavor, giving the dish an aromatic and slightly smoky taste.

5. Cooking Oil

Vegetable oil is commonly used for stir-frying, although you can also use other oils such as peanut oil or canola oil. The oil helps to cook the tofu and vegetables evenly, ensuring a crispy texture for the tofu and a golden color for the eggs.

6. Garnishes

To finish off the dish, you can garnish Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ with chopped green onions, cilantro, or fried shallots for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of chili flakes or fresh chili peppers can also be added for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

How to Make Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ: Step-by-Step

Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or a casual meal with family and friends.

Ingredients:

1 block of firm tofu (about 300-400g)
3 large eggs
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small carrot, julienned (optional)
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
2-3 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or more as needed)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnishes: chopped cilantro, fried shallots, chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Tofu:
- First, press the tofu to remove excess water. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then placing a heavy object on top for about 10-15 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Prepare the Eggs:
- In a small bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Set them aside.
Cook the Tofu:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tofu is golden and slightly crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking them for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add the Vegetables:
- If using carrots and bell peppers, add them to the skillet and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. If you’re using other vegetables, add them at this stage.
Add the Eggs:
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs and cook them for 1-2 minutes until they are just set but still slightly runny.
Combine the Tofu and Seasonings:
- Add the cooked tofu back into the skillet. Pour the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the tofu is coated in the flavorful sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the sauce.
Season and Garnish:
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, and fried shallots. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers.
Serve:
- Serve the Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ with steamed rice, noodles, or on its own as a light meal. Enjoy the dish while it’s hot, and savor the combination of flavors and textures.

Variations of Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ

Although the classic version of Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ is already delicious, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste preferences:

1. Vegetarian Version:

For a fully vegetarian version, omit the fish sauce and use a plant-based soy sauce or mushroom soy sauce instead. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini, to create a heartier meal.

2. Spicy Version:

If you enjoy spicy food, add fresh chilies or chili paste to the stir-fry. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the dish to enhance its heat and flavor.

3. Add Meat:

For those who prefer meat, you can add sliced chicken, pork, or beef to the dish. Simply stir-fry the meat along with the vegetables and tofu, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

4. Tofu Scramble Version:

For a tofu scramble-style dish, crumble the tofu into smaller pieces and cook it with the eggs until both ingredients are well combined. This version is similar to scrambled eggs with tofu and can be served as a breakfast dish.

Health Benefits of Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ

Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ is not only

a delicious dish, but it also offers several health benefits. The combination of tofu and eggs provides a well-rounded source of protein, essential amino acids, and healthy fats. Tofu is also an excellent source of plant-based protein, calcium, and iron, while eggs contribute to muscle repair and support brain function.

Moreover, the addition of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and green onions boosts the nutritional value of the dish, providing essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. This dish can be part of a balanced diet and is suitable for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their routine.

Conclusion

Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ is a classic Vietnamese stir-fry that combines the delicate flavors of tofu, eggs, and vegetables in a savory, umami-rich sauce. It’s a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed as a main or side dish. With its rich texture, balanced flavors, and numerous variations, Trứng Chiên Đậu Hũ is sure to become a favorite in any kitchen.

Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish offers a delicious introduction to Vietnamese cuisine, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that brings the comforting tastes of Vietnam to your table.