Jiangsu Serenity

Jiangsu Serenity is a traditional Chinese dish that exemplifies the delicate and sophisticated flavors that the Jiangsu province is renowned for. Known for its balance and lightness, this dish incorporates a variety of seasonal vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a harmonious blend that is both visually appealing and delightful to the palate. The Jiangsu province, situated along the east coast of China, is celebrated for its Huaiyang cuisine — one of the four major cuisines in China — which places an emphasis on meticulous attention to detail and technique, as well as a preference for fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• Tofu
• Bok Choy
• Shiitake Mushrooms
• Soy Sauce
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Green Onions
• Sesame Oil
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable Broth
• Sugar
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation

Begin by preparing the tofu. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Pat each cube dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice texture when cooking. Slice the shiitake mushrooms into thin pieces and set aside. Chop the bok choy into large chunks, separating the stems from the leaves as they will be cooked at different stages.

Creating the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, a tablespoon of cornstarch, a teaspoon of sugar, and a cup of vegetable broth. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and set aside.

Cooking Process

Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until all sides are golden brown. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked tofu to a plate and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more sesame oil if necessary. Add minced ginger and garlic, stirring frequently until fragrant, which should only take about 30 seconds to a minute. Add the shiitake mushrooms and the stems of the bok choy. Stir until they become tender.

Once the vegetables are tender, pour in the sauce mixture while stirring continuously until the sauce starts to thicken. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the bok choy leaves, cooking them until they have just wilted.

Return the tofu to the skillet and gently toss everything to coat in the sauce. Finally, add chopped green onions for garnish. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Cooking Time

The total cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, making it a suitable dish for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Enjoying Jiangsu Serenity

Jiangsu Serenity is best enjoyed hot, allowing the flavors to fully engage your senses. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice to absorb the rich and savory sauce, or enjoy it on its own as a lighter meal option. Pairing it with a light, herbal tea will enhance the subtle flavors of the dish, providing a well-rounded dining experience. Additionally, consider serving this dish family-style, along with other traditional Jiangsu dishes, to celebrate the communal aspect of Chinese dining culture.