Braised Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Aromatic Herbs

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Soft tofu simmered in a tangy tomato sauce infused with garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main dish. This vietnamese-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends block, cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu, vegetable oil, medium, thinly sliced shallots into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Vietnamese cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and pan-fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 3 thinly sliced shallots and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Step 3: Add 14 oz canned diced tomatoes, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 cup water. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu cubes to the skillet, gently submerge in the tomato sauce, and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the tofu.
  5. Step 5: Season with 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with 2 chopped green onions and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Braised Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Aromatic Herbs take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Braised Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Aromatic Herbs?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Braised Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Aromatic Herbs?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Braised Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Aromatic Herbs for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Braised Vietnamese Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Aromatic Herbs vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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