Pan Fried Tofu Egg Dau Hu Trung Chien Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it combines the perfect balance of crispy tofu and savory eggs, making it a delicious and satisfying meal that’s simple yet sophisticated. Plus, the mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates an umami-packed flavor profile that speaks to my millennial soul, always on the hunt for bold and exciting tastes.

I love how simple and wholesome ingredients come together to make a delightfully savory Pan Fried Tofu with Egg (Dau Hu Trung Chien). Firm tofu serves up a nutrient-rich plant protein in a dish where the eggs shine with their usual richness.

Sesame oil and garlic pretty much guarantee the flavor’s on point, and scallions are the finishing touch that takes the dish to the next level.

Ingredients

• Firm Tofu: High in protein, low in fat, and rich in iron.
• Eggs: Source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor, low in calories.
• Sesame Oil: Nutty aroma, contains healthy unsaturated fats.
• Garlic: Provides an aromatic base, contains antioxidants.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 scallion, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Tofu should be sliced into pieces that are each 1/2-inch thick. The slices should then be dried with a paper towel to absorb any extra moisture that may be within the tofu.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs with soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix thoroughly to achieve a homogenous blend.

3. Warm the vegetable oil in a big non-stick frying pan on medium heat.

4. Add the tofu slices to the skillet after the oil is hot. Fry the tofu until it is golden brown on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side.

5. When the tofu is golden and crispy, pour the egg mixture evenly over the tofu in the skillet.

6. Carefully swirl the frying pan to guarantee that the egg evenly spreads over the tofu and the surface of the pan.

7. Allow the egg to cook undisturbed until it sets around the tofu, roughly 2-3 minutes.

8. Sprinkle the scallions over the tofu and eggs while they are cooking.

9. When the eggs are completely cooked, gently move the tofu and egg to a plate for serving.

10. Top with fresh cilantro or parsley, if you like, and serve hot.

Equipment Needed

1. Knife
2. Cutting board
3. Paper towels
4. Mixing bowl
5. Whisk or fork
6. Non-stick frying pan or skillet
7. Spatula
8. Plate for serving

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of tofu?Indeed, extra-firm tofu can be used for a similar outcome, but soft or silken tofu should be avoided due to their inability to hold up well when frying.
• What if I’m allergic to soy?Substitutes for soy sauce:
  1. Coconut aminos
  2. Tamari (ensure it’s soy-free)
• Can I make this dish vegan?To create a version of this recipe that is suitable for a vegan diet, you would need to make the following substitutions:

  Eggs: Replace with a vegan egg substitute.

  Soy sauce: Use a soy-free alternative.

• How can I make the tofu more flavorful?For at least 30 minutes prior to cooking, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. This will enhance the flavor.
• Is sesame oil necessary?Though it imparts a very distinctive flavor, you can omit the oil or substitute it with another type, if that’s your preference.
• What can I serve with this dish?This dish of tofu matches well with rice that has been steamed, vegetables that have been stir-fried, or a fresh salad that is on the side.
• How long does this dish last in the fridge?Keep any remaining food in an airtight container for no more than 3 days. Before you serve it again, warm it up in a pan or microwave.

Substitutions and Variations

Tofu, firm: Substitute with extra-firm tofu for a texture that is denser.
Soy sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option, coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Sesame oil: Use olive oil for a different taste, or leave it out if you don’t have it.
Garlic: If you cannot find fresh garlic, use garlic powder, about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Substituting vegetable oil is simple; it can easily be replaced with canola oil or avocado oil. Both of these oils have high smoke points and are neutral in flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Press the Tofu Thoroughly Ensure the tofu is well-pressed to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying. Use a tofu press if available, or wrap the tofu in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for at least 15-20 minutes.

2. Uniform Tofu Slices Cut the tofu slices as uniformly as possible to ensure even cooking. This consistency helps each piece achieve the same level of crispiness and absorb the egg mixture evenly.

3. Preheat the Pan Properly Make sure the vegetable oil in the pan is hot before adding the tofu. A hot pan ensures a nice sear and prevents the tofu from sticking.

4. Stir the Egg Mixture Well Before adding the egg mixture to the pan, give it another good stir to make sure the minced garlic and soy sauce are evenly distributed. This ensures consistent flavor across the dish.

5. Adjust Seasoning to Taste Taste the egg mixture before adding it to the tofu to check the balance of salt, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Adjust according to your preference, as personal taste for saltiness can vary.