Tofu and Shrimp in Spicy Chili Ketchup Sauce

 Tofu and Shrimp in Spicy Chili Ketchup Sauce recipe

This simple yet flavorful dish is inspired by the Japanese cuisine.  It offers a balanced blend of protein and rich flavors.  It is quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:

• 5 oz. firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 oz. shrimp (about 12 pieces), washed and deveined
• Sauce Ingredients:
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp sake
• 2 tsp Korean chili paste (Gochujang)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp mushroom seasoning (optional)
• 1/4 cup water
• Cooking Ingredients:
• 2 oz. white onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (for dredging)
• 1/4 cup oil (for frying)
• Steamed rice for serving

Directions:

1.    Preparing the Ingredients:

·         Wash and devein the shrimp thoroughly.

·         Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

·         Mix all the sauce ingredients: ketchup, sake, chili paste, sugar, soy sauce, mushroom seasoning, and water.  Set aside.

2.    Coating and Frying:

·         Lightly dredge both the tofu and shrimp in cornstarch to create a thin coating.

·         Heat 1/4 cup oil in a pan over medium heat.  Pan-fry the tofu cubes until golden and crispy on all sides, then set aside.  Fry the shrimp in the same oil until pink and slightly crispy, then remove and set aside.

·         Pour excess oil from the pan, leaving about one tablespoon for sautéing.

3.    Cooking the Aromatics:

·         Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté over medium heat until fragrant.

·         Lower the heat, add the diced onions, and cook until translucent.

4.    Combining and Simmering:

·         Pour the prepared sauce into the pan and bring it to a gentle boil.

·         Add the fried tofu and shrimp to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly.  Allow them to simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5.    Serving:

·         Spoon the tofu and shrimp mixture over steamed rice and enjoy while hot.

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This dish combines the savory, tangy kick of the chili ketchup sauce with the soft tofu and tender shrimp, making it a delightful, protein-packed meal perfect for any day.