Stuffing typically consists of bread and veggies. In Vietnamese, stuffing means ground pork, bean thread noodles, and wood ear mushrooms. This classic pork stuffing is the basis for egg rolls, canh kho qua (bitter melon soup). Here is another classic Vietnamese home cooking dish, dau hu nhoi thit, braised stuffed tofu with tomatoes.

IGREDIENTS:

• 10 large fried firm tofu
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced into small sections
• 4-6 green onions (dice one green onion set aside. With remainder, cut long segments of the green portion for tying tofu)
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 shallot minced
• cooking oil
• water or stock

Pork Mixture

• ½ lb ground pork
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ tablespoon salt
• 1 minced shallots or small onion, diced
• ½ cup bean thread noodles, soaked in warm water about 10 min, drain and cut in 2-3 inch length
• ¼ cup wood ear mushrooms, soaked in warm water about 10 min, drain and cut thinly

PROCESS:

In a large mixing bowl, mix together the pork, fish sauce, sugar, pepper, salt, shallots, wood ear mushrooms, bean thread noodles and mix well.

Slice the tofu lengthwise along the side, but do not cut all the way through. Gently split tofu open and stuff it, being careful not to over stuff and rip the tofu apart. Microwave the green stems for about 10 seconds or dip them in boiling water to wilt. Then wrap the tofu like presents with a double knot. If you can make a nice bow, go for it!!

In large saute pan or wok add about 1 tbs of cooking oil on medium high heat and when hot, add garlic and shallots. When fragrant and golden, add the tofu and tomatoes. Now add enough water or stock (chicken) to just cover the tofu. Close lid and braise on low heat for about 30 minutes or until the tomato sauce is reduced and thickened. Adjust seasoning of the tomato sauce with salt and pepper and finally add the chopped green onions. Remove from heat and serve with jasmine rice.

By braising, the pork and tofu will soak in the tomato flavor. Your family will love this. Each stuffed tofu is like a delectable present that your family will be happy to enjoy over and over.