In the lively streets and markets, Stir-Fried Leek with Smoked bean curd is a common and beloved homestyle dish. Its flavor, just like its name, is simple yet comforting. However, within this simplicity lies a delightful taste that captivates the senses.Smoked bean curd, a soy-based product processed using special techniques, has a chewy texture and a subtle bean fragrance. Leek, on the other hand, are a seasonal delicacy in spring, known for their delicious taste and nutritional value. When these two ingredients come together in a stir-fry, it creates a harmonious combination that feels like a perfect union in nature, evoking a sense of longing.During the cooking process, the pairing of leek and smoked bean curd adds a touch of culinary charm to the dish. The freshness of the chives complements the chewiness of the smoked bean curd, creating a fusion of flavors that not only allows you to savor the individual deliciousness of each ingredient but also experience the authenticity and beauty of life itself.
Ingredients for Stir-Fried Leek with Smoked bean curd:
| Leek | 250g |
| Smoked bean curd | 200g |
| Red pepper | 20g |
| Green onion | 10g |
| Ginger | 10g |
| Garlic | 10g |
| Salt | 5g |
| Essence of chicken | 5g |
| Pepper powder | 5g |
| Dried chilli | 10g |
| Sesame oil | 6g |
Step:
1.First, let’s prepare the ingredients. Clean and cut a bunch of leeks into approximately 3 cm sections. Remove the seeds from half a red bell pepper and slice it into thin strips. Combining these two ingredients not only adds depth to the dish but also enhances its visual appeal. The vibrant green color of the chives complements the bright red of the bell pepper, making it even more appetizing.
2.Start by cutting the smoked bean curd into square pieces, and then further slice them into thin strips. This preparation method allows the smoked bean curd to absorb flavors easily and adds layers of texture. Additionally, to enhance both the color and taste of the dish, we will need some additional seasonings. Cut the white part of a spring onion into diagonal slices for both aesthetic appeal and easy flavor absorption. Slice ginger into rhombus-shaped pieces to release its unique spiciness and aroma effectively. Thinly slice garlic to blend well with other ingredients. Lastly, add a dried red chili pepper to add some spice and color to the dish.
3.To make the smoked bean curd tender and flavorful, you can blanch it. Here’s how: Add an appropriate amount of water to a pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, put the smoked bean curd in the pot. Let it soak in the hot water for about 10 seconds. Then remove the blanched smoked bean curd from the pot and drain any excess water using a strainer or colander. Blanching helps remove impurities from the surface of the smoked bean curd, making it softer and adding a smooth texture. It also helps reduce the fishy smell and enhances the overall taste and flavor of the dish.
4.Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped spring onion, ginger, garlic, and dried red chili pepper to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant. When the aromatics release their flavors, add the sliced leeks and bell pepper strips to the pan and stir-fry quickly. Be mindful of the cooking time, ensuring that the leeks and bell pepper are cooked but still crisp. Then add the sliced smoked bean curd to the pan and continue stir-frying over high heat. If the ingredients begin to dry out, add a little water to maintain moisture in the dish. Finally, when the smoked bean curd is cooked through, season with salt, chicken powder, and pepper to taste. Note that salt should be added towards the later stage to avoid excessive moisture release from the chives, which may affect the texture.
5.Once the smoked bean curd is well mixed with the other ingredients, add some sesame oil and quickly stir-fry until evenly distributed. The addition of sesame oil adds a rich aroma and unique flavor to the dish. It enhances the overall texture and layers of flavor, making the smoked bean curd dish even more enticing. When the sesame oil is fully incorporated, remove the pan from heat and transfer the stir-fried smoked bean curd to a serving plate. Your delicious stir-fried smoked bean curd dish is now ready to be enjoyed.
Tips:
1.Ensure to select fresh, tender green leeks and well-textured smoked bean curd. Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of the dish.
2.Proper control of heat is crucial during the stir-frying process. Moderate heat allows for even heating of the ingredients, maintaining the vibrant green color of the leeks and preserving the tender texture of the dried tofu.
3.Finally, add an appropriate amount of sesame oil to enrich the aroma and add a distinct flavor to the dish.
Stir-Fried Leek with Smoked bean curd is a mouthwatering homestyle dish. With its vibrant color and delicious taste, it excels in both texture and nutrition. Though the cooking process may be simple, it is filled with the passion of everyday life. In the kitchen, you can feel the warmth of the stove, the aroma of mixed spices, and the liveliness of the ingredients sizzling in the pan. These details make cooking interesting and vivid, like an intimate conversation with life itself. Tasting this dish is like savoring the goodness of life. The freshness of the leeks, the chewiness of the smoked bean curd, and the perfect combination of various seasonings bring immense satisfaction and happiness. Every bite feels like reliving the taste of home, evoking a sense of warmth and familiarity.