Braised Tofu with Leek (Cōng shāo dòu fu)

Step 1: Prepare Aromatic Oil

Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add 1–2 star anise and a few slices of fresh ginger. Roast until fragrant, then remove the star anise and ginger from the oil.

Step 2: Fry the Tofu

Place the roughly torn tofu pieces in the pan over high heat. Fry on one side until the tofu is firm and golden brown, then flip to cook the other side.

Step 3: Add Leek

Add the green part of the leek and the other half of the white leek to the pan. Stir-fry briefly with the tofu.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Simmer

Mix together the sauce ingredients: 3 tbsp light soy sauce, 0.5 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp vegan oyster sauce, 4 g salt (1 tsp), 1 tsp sugar, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, some white pepper, 10 tbsp water, 1 tsp potato starch, and half of the finely sliced white leek.
Pour this sauce into the pan with tofu and leek. Cover with a lid and simmer for 5 minutes until the tofu absorbs the sauce and it thickens nicely.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot with rice. This dish is vegan, flavorful, and perfect comfort food for a cozy meal.