Homestyle Tofu
Oyster Mushroom Soup

A comforting, savory soup featuring silken tofu and earthy oyster mushrooms in a rich broth. Thickened to perfection and finished with fresh cilantro for a family-favorite side dish.

Ingredients

• 400 g firm or silken tofu
• 200 g oyster mushrooms
• 2 tbsp minced scallions
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp pork lard residue
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp white pepper powder
• 3 tbsp cornstarch slurry
• to taste MSG
• to garnish fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. 1Cut the Tofu

   

   Place the block of tofu on a wooden cutting board and carefully slice it into small, uniform cubes.

   Tip: Keep the cubes even in size so they cook uniformly in the soup.
2. 2Slice the Mushrooms

   

   Take the oyster mushrooms and slice them into smaller, manageable pieces on the wooden cutting board.

   Tip: Slice them to a size that matches the tofu cubes for better texture consistency.
3. 3Sauté the Aromatics

   

   Heat oil in a wok, then add the minced scallions, ginger, and garlic, stirring them constantly until fragrant.

   Tip: Ensure the heat isnt too high to avoid burning the garlic and ginger.
4. 4Add Pork Lard Residue

   

   Add the pork lard residue into the wok along with the sautéed aromatics, mixing everything together.

   Tip: Pork lard residue adds a rich, savory depth of flavor to the base of the soup.
5. 5Add the Tofu

   

   Pour the previously diced tofu from a bowl directly into the wok with the fragrant aromatics and lard.

   Tip: Slide the tofu gently to prevent breaking the cubes apart.
6. 6Add and Stir-fry Mushrooms

   

   Add the sliced oyster mushrooms into the wok with the tofu and other ingredients, then continue to stir-fry.

   Tip: Toss gently so the tofu and mushrooms combine well with the seasonings.
7. 7Season with Salt

   

   Add salt into the wok with the stir-fried tofu and mushrooms, mixing well to evenly distribute the seasoning.

   Tip: Seasoning early helps the tofu absorb flavor as it simmers.
8. 8Add Water

   

   Pour water into the wok over the seasoned tofu and mushroom mixture, then bring the contents to a boil.

   Tip: Ensure enough water is added to form the base of the soup.
9. 9Add MSG

   

   Add a scoop of MSG into the boiling soup to enhance the savory flavor profile.

   Tip: Adjust the amount of MSG according to your preference.
10. 10Thicken the Soup

    

    Pour cornstarch slurry gradually into the boiling soup while stirring to achieve a smooth, thickened consistency.

    Tip: Pour slowly and stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
11. 11Season with Pepper

    

    Sprinkle white pepper powder evenly over the soup to add a subtle warmth and aroma.

    Tip: White pepper provides a distinct, mild heat that complements soup broths.
12. 12Garnish with Cilantro

    

    Garnish the finished soup in the pot with freshly chopped cilantro just before serving.

    Tip: Add cilantro right at the end to keep its fresh green color and flavor vibrant.

Storage & Reheating

Burn It Off

Frequently Asked Questions