Easy Seafood Tofu Recipe

I’ve always been a fan of mixing land and sea flavors, and when tofu, shrimp, and scallops unite in a sizzling dance of garlic, ginger, and soy, it’s like creating my own culinary masterpiece with every bite!

Meals that I create and bring to the table are rich with the flavors of the sea, and my Easy Seafood Tofu recipe is no exception. Or should I say, it is the exception that proves the rule!

It is rich in all the ways a dish can be rich—tasty, healthy, and umami-flavored. You might even say, it has what people from the city of my birth, San Francisco, call “seafood city!” That said, this dish is more than a simple fairground attraction with some critters from the sea and some soy sauce and sesame.

This is garlic and ginger goodness, the kind of dish that’s sweet on the mouth and doesn’t make your heart work overtime.

Easy Seafood Tofu Recipe Ingredients

• Firm Tofu: High in protein, low in calories; adds texture and nutrition.
• Shrimp: Rich in protein and Omega-3s; contributes a delicate, sweet flavor.
• Scallops: Low in fat, packed with vitamins; offers a tender, sweet taste.
• Garlic: Antioxidants; enhances immune system and adds aromatic depth.
• Ginger: Anti-inflammatory; brings warmth and zest to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami, hearty flavor; source of essential amino acids.
• Oyster Sauce: Sweet-savory balance; enriches the seafood profile.
• Green Onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor; provides a subtle crunch.

Easy Seafood Tofu Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 8 oz firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb scallops, cleaned
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame oil for drizzling

How to Make this Easy Seafood Tofu Recipe

1. Start off by warming 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Incorporate the diced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for approximately half a minute until aromatic.

3. Put the shrimp and scallops in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to look opaque.

4. Take the seafood out of the skillet, and set it aside.

5. In the same frying pan, add the tofu cubes and carefully stir them for approximately 2 to 3 minutes until they are golden on all sides.

6. Put the shrimp and scallops back in the skillet with the tofu.

7. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and 1/4 cup water or chicken broth; then pour over the seafood and tofu.

8. Heat to a simmer and then add the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens.

9. Add salt and pepper to season the dish, then finish by adding the green onions.

10. Complete the preparation by lightly drizzling sesame oil over the dish just prior to serving hot.

Easy Seafood Tofu Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet or wok
2. Stirring spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Small bowl
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cups

FAQ

• Can I use tofu that isn’t firm?
  It’s best to use firm tofu, as it’s more stable and holds its shape during cooking.
• What can I substitute for scallops?
  You can use other seafood like squid or calamari as a substitute for scallops.
• Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
  Yes, you can omit the seafood and use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms instead.
• Can I make this recipe spicy?
  Absolutely! Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.
• Can I use frozen shrimp?
  Yes, just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before using them in the recipe.
• Is it necessary to use sesame oil?
  While not necessary, sesame oil adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor to the finished dish.

Easy Seafood Tofu Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Extra-firm tofu can serve as a stand-in for firm tofu if you’re looking for that denser texture.
Diced chicken breast can replace shrimp for a non-seafood option.
Calamari rings can be used in place of scallops for a texture that is very nearly the same.
You can use olive oil in place of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.
You can use hoisin sauce in place of oyster sauce if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Press the Tofu: Before cutting the tofu into cubes, press it for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This will help the tofu become crispier when sautéed.