Vietnamese Tofu with Tomato Sauce (Đậu Sốt Cà Chua)

Vietnamese Tofu with Tomato Sauce (Đậu Sốt Cà Chua)

Đậu sốt cà chua is an extremely simple dish to cook, with fried tofu and roma tomatoes, quickly simmered to soften and seasoned with fish sauce. Perfect for a quick family meal, and a recipe that always transports me back to my childhood.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb firm tofu

    pre-fried tofu can be great if you live near a shop that fries these fresh daily

  • oil for deep frying
  • 5 ripe Roma tomatoes

    medium size, cut into 4ths or 6ths

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 tsp fish sauce

    optional, but..not really!

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 c water
  • 1 stalk green onions

    finely sliced

Directions

  1. 1

    Cut the tofu blocks in half lengthwise (so they're thinner and remove more moisture), then again into smaller pieces to help remove more moisture.

  2. 2

    Slice the tomatoes into bite sized pieces, about 4-8 pieces per tomato. It will help them cook quicker too.

Vietnamese Tofu with Tomato Sauce (Đậu Sốt Cà Chua)

Vietnamese Tofu with Tomato Sauce (Đậu Sốt Cà Chua)

5.0(13)

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Ratings & Reviews

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Exceptional

Based on 13 ratings

hungryhuy.com
5.0(13 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a taste of home, or a quick, comforting meal that feels deeply satisfying? This Vietnamese Tofu with Tomato Sauce, known as Đậu Sốt Cà Chua, offers exactly that—a simple yet profoundly flavorful dish that brings back cherished childhood memories.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this Đậu Sốt Cà Chua truly special is its elegant simplicity. It features perfectly fried firm tofu and ripe Roma tomatoes, quickly simmered together to create a sauce that is both savory and subtly sweet. The crucial addition of fish sauce elevates the flavors, creating a harmonious balance that is the hallmark of authentic Vietnamese home cooking. It's a quick family meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

What to Expect

You'll be greeted by beautifully golden-brown, crispy-edged tofu that gives way to a soft interior, all enveloped in a vibrant, rich tomato sauce. The sauce, thickened slightly by the naturally sweet Roma tomatoes and a touch of tomato paste, offers a delightful tang complemented by hints of sugar and the umami depth of fish sauce. The finely sliced green onions add a fresh, aromatic finish, brightening every bite. This naturally gluten-free dish is incredibly comforting and approachable, perfect for any weeknight.

Customization & Variations

For an even quicker preparation, you can absolutely use pre-fried firm tofu, especially if you have access to a local shop that fries them fresh daily. While fish sauce is noted as optional, its unique savory depth is truly integral to the traditional flavor profile of Đậu Sốt Cà Chua, so we highly recommend including it. The recipe uses firm tofu, which holds up wonderfully to frying and simmering, ensuring a satisfying texture.

Serving & Context

This Vietnamese Tofu with Tomato Sauce is an ideal quick family meal, evoking warmth and nostalgia. Serve it alongside a bowl of steamed rice to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce. It’s a dish that truly nourishes both body and soul.

Frequently Asked Questions