This Japanese pumpkin and tofu stew is a comforting and nutritious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of pumpkin combined with the soft texture of tofu. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year.
The recipe is easy to follow and features basic cooking techniques. You can adjust the seasoning and add other vegetables to enhance the flavor according to your taste.
Hearty Japanese Pumpkin and Tofu Stew Recipe
This stew features tender pumpkin and tofu simmered in a savory dashi broth, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 small Japanese pumpkin (kabocha), peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 block (14 oz) extra firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
- 4 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Peel and cube the pumpkin, drain and cube the tofu, and slice the onion, bell pepper, and carrots.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and carrots, and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add Pumpkin and Broth: Add the pumpkin cubes and dashi broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
- Add Tofu and Season: Gently add the tofu cubes to the pot along with soy sauce and mirin. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the tofu through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and add salt if needed. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot with rice or as a standalone dish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
This recipe is part of my 45 Delicious and Easy Japanese Recipes. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
Jeff was a leader for Whole Foods Market for over 2 decades and is now a recovering foodie. When he's not spending time in the kitchen, he can usually be found with 3 daughters, practicing martial arts, making music, or blogging on his other sites. Click Here to learn more about me. Click Here to learn more about my site. Editorial Policies.
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