How to Make Dau Hu Sot Ca Chua: Easy Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce Recipe

If there’s one dish that brings comfort and simplicity to the table, it’s dau hu sot ca chua, or tofu in tomato sauce. This Vietnamese classic is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors. It’s a humble yet satisfying dish that reminds us how the simplest ingredients can create something truly delicious.

What we love about this recipe is its versatility. Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful addition to a larger spread, this dish never disappoints. Plus, it’s naturally plant-based, making it a wholesome option for everyone to enjoy.

What Is Dau Hu Sot Ca Chua?

Dau hu sot ca chua is a classic Vietnamese dish that translates to “tofu in tomato sauce.” It combines golden-fried tofu with a savory, tangy tomato sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, relying on fresh ingredients and uncomplicated preparation. It showcases the vibrant and fragrant flavors characteristic of Vietnamese home cooking.

The tofu absorbs the rich tomato sauce, enhancing its textures and flavor profile. The dish is often served with steamed rice, making it a hearty and satisfying option. Families across Vietnam prepare dau hu sot ca chua as a quick and nutritious meal that celebrates tofu’s versatility. This plant-based recipe is not only delicious but also suits a wide range of diets.

Ingredients

For The Fried Tofu

• 1 block of extra-firm tofu (about 14 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
• Vegetable oil for frying or an air fryer for a lighter option

For The Tomato Sauce

• 3 fresh Roma tomatoes, sliced into wedges or smaller pieces
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for added flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1/4 cup water

Tools And Equipment

To prepare dau hu sot ca chua, we need the right tools and equipment to ensure the process is smooth and efficient. Below is a breakdown of essential items:

Cooking Vessels

• Wok or Stainless Steel Saucepan: Ideal for simmering the tomato sauce and stir-frying the tofu. A wok is especially useful if we decide to fry the tofu due to its curved design, which helps distribute heat evenly.

Frying Equipment

• Deep Frying Pan or Skillet: For deep-frying or pan-frying the tofu. If we prefer a light option, an air fryer can also be used.
• Deep Fryer (Optional): For those who want perfectly crispy tofu with minimal effort.

Utensils

• Knife: Necessary for cutting tofu into even blocks and chopping ingredients like tomatoes, shallots, and garlic.
• Spatula: Helps us flip the tofu during frying and stir the sauce without breaking the tofu pieces.
• Spoon: Perfect for mixing the tomato sauce and breaking down the tomatoes as they cook.

Tofu Pressing

• Plate and Paper Towels: For pressing excess moisture out of the tofu. A heavy item like a can or mortar can be placed on top to exert pressure.

Other Tools

• Mixing Bowl (Optional): Useful if we opt to make stuffed tofu versions through variations of this recipe.

Having these tools on hand simplifies the preparation of dau hu sot ca chua and ensures our dish turns out delicious and visually appealing.

Directions

Let’s bring this classic Vietnamese dish, dau hu sot ca chua, to life by following these simple steps. From prepping the tofu to simmering it all together, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Prep The Ingredients

1. Prepare the tofu: Drain and press 1-2 packages of medium to extra-firm tofu for 20-30 minutes using paper towels and a plate to remove excess moisture. Then cut the tofu into small, even cubes or chunks.
2. Chop vegetables: Slice 3-5 ripe Roma tomatoes into wedges or sixths. Chop 1/4 of a small onion and mince 2-4 garlic cloves for the aromatics. Thinly slice some green onions to use as a fresh garnish.
3. Gather additional ingredients: Measure out 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1-2 teaspoons of fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version), 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Keep vegetable or olive oil ready for cooking.

Fry The Tofu

1. Heat a generous layer of vegetable or olive oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to fry evenly.
3. Fry the tofu until all sides are golden and crisp, turning them occasionally with a spatula. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the fried tofu and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Set aside.

Make The Tomato Sauce

1. In the same pan or wok used for frying (leave a little oil in the pan), sauté the minced garlic and chopped onions over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the tomato wedges and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and begin to break down. Use the back of a spoon to press the tomatoes slightly, releasing their juices.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, fish sauce (or soy sauce), sugar, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to loosen the mixture if needed. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to create a slightly chunky yet thick sauce.

Combine And Simmer

1. Gently add the fried tofu to the tomato sauce, stirring to coat each piece evenly.
2. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the rich, tangy flavors of the sauce. If the sauce gets too thick, add a few tablespoons of water.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Remove from heat and transfer the dish to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve dau hu sot ca chua hot with steamed rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Dau hu sot ca chua shines on the table with its versatility, offering a variety of serving options to complement any meal. Traditionally, we pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice. The rice perfectly absorbs the savory tomato sauce, creating a satisfying and hearty combination that’s hard to resist. For a quick, comforting lunch or dinner, this pairing is an excellent choice.

We can serve dau hu sot ca chua as either a main entrée or a side dish. When part of a larger spread, it works wonderfully alongside other Vietnamese favorites like stir-fried vegetables, fried fish, or stuffed squid. The tofu’s rich flavor and the sauce’s savory tang make it a standout addition to a communal meal.

Adding garnishes such as sliced scallions, fresh cilantro, or chopped green onions elevates the dish, bringing brightness and color to the plate. These fresh herbs complement the tangy tomato sauce and add a hint of freshness.

For a healthier spin, we can air fry the tofu instead of deep-frying it. This alternative method reduces the oil content while keeping the tofu crispy and ready to soak up the bold flavors of the tomato sauce. Whether served as the centerpiece of the meal or alongside other dishes, dau hu sot ca chua always leaves a lasting impression.

Make-Ahead Instructions

When it comes to preparing dau hu sot ca chua ahead of time, there are some incredibly convenient ways to streamline the process without compromising on flavor. Here’s how we can break it down:

Frying the Tofu in Advance

We can fry the tofu ahead of time to save effort during the final preparation. Start by cutting the extra-firm tofu into your desired shapes, such as cubes or triangles. Thoroughly pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crisp, golden fried tofu. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet, then fry the tofu until it turns a beautiful golden-brown on all sides. Once fried, let the tofu cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it until you are ready to assemble the dish — it can stay fresh for up to 3 days this way.

Preparing the Tomato Sauce Ahead

The tangy and savory tomato sauce, one of the key elements of dau hu sot ca chua, can also be prepared in advance. Start by heating a bit of oil in a wok or saucepan. Sauté minced garlic and finely chopped onions until fragrant. Add fresh Roma tomatoes, tomato paste, and your seasonings (such as sugar, salt, and water). Let the mixture simmer on low heat until it turns smooth and well-combined. Once cooled, store the sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. This tomato sauce will stay tasty for up to 2 days, ready to elevate our tofu when we need it.

By preparing these components ahead, assembling dau hu sot ca chua for a quick meal becomes effortless and stress-free.

Tips And Variations

Quick Preparation

To make dau hu sot ca chua faster for those bustling evenings, we recommend using pre-fried tofu squares, which are readily available at most Asian markets. This saves time by skipping the draining, pressing, and frying steps, allowing us to focus on the flavorful tomato sauce. If using pre-fried tofu, gently rinse the tofu pieces in warm water and pat them dry before incorporating them into the dish.

Vegan Adjustments

For a fully vegan version of dau hu sot ca chua, we can replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari. This simple swap ensures the dish retains its savory depth while adhering to vegan dietary preferences. Plant-based sweeteners like agave syrup or coconut sugar may also be used as an alternative to granulated sugar, complementing the fresh taste of the tomatoes.

Enhance the Flavor

To deepen the dish’s flavor profile, we can add a dollop of tomato paste while cooking the tomato sauce. This intensifies the umami taste and creates a richer, thicker sauce. Additionally, incorporating a few slices of fresh chili pepper will add a touch of heat for those who enjoy spicier dishes.

Healthier Cooking Alternative

For a less oily preparation, we suggest air frying the tofu instead of deep frying. Coat the tofu cubes lightly with a neutral oil and air fry them at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, checking for a golden crispness. This method delivers the crunch we love in dau hu sot ca chua while significantly reducing the oil content.

Serving Variations

While dau hu sot ca chua pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, we can experiment with other accompaniments like quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome twist. Serving the dish alongside a fresh Vietnamese cucumber salad or pickled vegetables adds a refreshing contrast to its tangy, savory flavors. If desired, we can sprinkle roasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for an added nutty aroma and texture.

Make-Ahead Convenience

To streamline our cooking, consider preparing components ahead. Fried tofu stays fresh for up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Similarly, the tomato sauce can be cooked and refrigerated for up to two days. When ready to enjoy, simply combine the tofu and pre-made sauce in a skillet, heat through, and serve. These make-ahead steps transform dau hu sot ca chua into an effortless meal perfect for busy weekdays.

Conclusion

Dau hu sot ca chua is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With its rich tomato sauce and crispy tofu, it’s a comforting meal that fits into any occasion, whether it’s a quick dinner or part of a larger spread.

We love how versatile and customizable it is, making it easy to adapt for different tastes and lifestyles. Whether you’re serving it with rice, adding fresh garnishes, or prepping ahead for busy days, this dish brings ease and joy to the table.

Let’s embrace the beauty of wholesome ingredients and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that dau hu sot ca chua offers. It’s a timeless classic worth sharing and savoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dau hu sot ca chua?

Dau hu sot ca chua translates to “tofu in tomato sauce,” a classic Vietnamese dish featuring golden-fried tofu simmered in a savory, tangy tomato sauce. It’s a simple, comforting meal usually served with steamed rice.

What ingredients are needed for dau hu sot ca chua?

The dish requires extra-firm tofu, vegetable oil, fresh Roma tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, garlic, sugar, salt, and water. Green onions or cilantro can be used as garnishes.

How do I prepare the tofu for this dish?

Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Fry until golden and crisp before combining with the tomato sauce.

Can the dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can fry the tofu and prepare the tomato sauce up to 2-3 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for easy assembly later.

Is dau hu sot ca chua vegan-friendly?

Yes, the dish is naturally plant-based. For a vegan version, substitute fish sauce with soy sauce and use plant-based sweeteners if needed.

What can I serve with dau hu sot ca chua?

Traditionally, it’s served with steamed jasmine rice. You can also pair it with quinoa, brown rice, fresh salads, or pickled vegetables for variety.

Can I use pre-fried tofu for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-fried tofu squares can save time and still absorb the flavors of the tomato sauce effectively.

How can I make a healthier version of this dish?

Air-frying the tofu instead of deep-frying reduces oil content while maintaining crispiness. Use minimal sugar and opt for wholesome sides like brown rice or fresh vegetables.

Can I adjust the recipe for more flavor?

Yes, you can add tomato paste for a richer sauce or fresh chili peppers for heat. Customize seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

What tools do I need to make dau hu sot ca chua?

You’ll need a wok or saucepan for the sauce, a frying pan for the tofu, a knife for cutting, a spatula for flipping, and paper towels for pressing the tofu. Simple kitchen tools work perfectly!

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