Tofu with Pork and Miso
Soft tofu provides a delicate, creamy base for this comforting Japanese-style dish.Ground pork adds richness, protein, and savory texture.Miso creates a deep fermented umami flavor throughout the sauce.Fresh ginger and garlic add warmth and aromatic freshness.Soy sauce and mirin create a balanced sweet and savory finish.Perfect served hot over steamed Japanese rice.
Ingredients
For the Tofu and Pork
- 14 ounces (400 g) firm or medium-firm tofu
- 8 ounces (225 g) ground pork
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
For the Miso Sauce
- 2 tablespoons white miso
- 1 tablespoon red or awase miso
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake or water
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- ½ cup (120 ml) water or dashi
Instructions
Drain the Tofu
- Remove the tofu from its package and drain the liquid.Wrap it gently in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.Place a light weight on top and allow it to drain for approximately 10–15 minutes.This removes excess moisture while keeping the tofu tender.
Cut the Tofu
- Cut the tofu into medium-sized cubes.Avoid cutting the pieces too small because they can break apart during cooking.Set the tofu aside while preparing the sauce.
Prepare the Miso Sauce
- Place the white miso, red or awase miso, soy sauce, mirin, sake or water, sugar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and water or dashi in a bowl.Whisk until the miso is completely dissolved.Set aside.
Cook the Pork
- Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.Add the cooking oil.Add the ground pork and cook for approximately 4–5 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.Continue cooking until the pork is thoroughly cooked and lightly browned
Add the Onion
- Add the finely chopped onion to the pork.Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.The onion adds natural sweetness to the savory dish.
Add the Miso Sauce
- Pour the prepared miso sauce into the skillet.Stir gently to combine the pork and sauce.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.Avoid boiling the sauce aggressively because prolonged high heat can affect the delicate flavor of miso.
Add the Tofu
- Carefully place the tofu cubes into the skillet.Use a spoon to gently coat the tofu with the sauce.Avoid vigorous stirring because the tofu can crumble.
Adjust the Seasoning
- Taste the sauce.If you prefer more sweetness, add a small amount of sugar or mirin.For more saltiness, add a small splash of soy sauce.For extra heat, add chili oil or shichimi togarashi.
Finish and Garnish
- Turn off the heat.Sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the tofu and pork.Add a small drizzle of sesame oil if desired.Serve immediately.
Notes
- Choose the right tofu: Medium-firm or firm tofu holds its shape well while remaining tender.
- Drain the tofu: Removing excess water helps the tofu absorb the miso sauce more effectively.
- Do not over-stir: Gentle handling prevents the tofu from breaking apart.
- Use fresh miso: Fresh, properly stored miso provides the best flavor and aroma.
- Simmer gently: A gentle simmer allows the sauce to flavor the tofu without making it tough.
- Taste before adding salt: Miso and soy sauce are already naturally salty.
- Use lean or moderately fatty pork: Either works, depending on whether you prefer a lighter or richer dish.
- Serve immediately: The dish tastes best while warm and freshly prepared.