Đậu Hũ Nhồi Thịt Sốt Cà Chua (Vietnamese Stuffed Tofu with Pork in Tomato Sauce)

If you’re craving something savory, comforting, and deeply nostalgic, Đậu Hũ Nhồi Thịt Sốt Cà Chua—Vietnamese stuffed tofu with pork in tomato sauce—is a must-try. This classic home-style dish features golden fried tofu filled with seasoned ground pork, gently simmered in a tangy-sweet tomato sauce.

It’s simple to make, deeply flavorful, and pairs perfectly with hot jasmine rice. This version uses pantry-friendly ingredients and fresh finds from Austin Asian grocery stores like 99 Ranch or MT Supermarket. Whether you're reconnecting with childhood flavors or cooking Vietnamese food for the first time, this dish delivers homey comfort in every bite.

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Ingredients

For the Stuffed Tofu:

1 package firm tofu (square or rectangular blocks)

1. 1/2 lb ground pork

2. 2 cloves garlic, minced

3. 1/2 shallot or small onion, finely chopped

4. 1/2 tsp fish sauce

5. 1/2 tsp soy sauce

6. 1/4 tsp black pepper

7. Pinch of sugar

8. Neutral oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Sauce:

2–3 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1/2 can crushed tomatoes)

1. 1 clove garlic, minced

2. 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for color and richness)

3. 1 tsp fish sauce

4. 1 tsp sugar (to taste)

5. 1/2 cup water or stock

6. Green onions or cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Tofu

Cut tofu into blocks and gently hollow out the centers with a spoon, creating a pocket (save the tofu scraps). Pat dry with paper towels. Lightly fry the tofu blocks in oil until golden on all sides. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Make the Pork Filling

In a bowl, mix ground pork with minced garlic, shallot, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and the tofu scraps. Stir well to combine into a cohesive filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Tofu

Spoon the pork mixture into each tofu block, pressing gently so it stays in place. Don’t overfill—they will expand slightly when cooked.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

In a skillet or shallow pan, sauté garlic in a little oil. Add chopped tomatoes (and tomato paste, if using). Cook until softened, then add water, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer until saucy and slightly thickened—about 5–7 minutes.

Step 5: Braise the Tofu

Carefully place the stuffed tofu into the sauce, filling side up. Spoon some sauce over each piece. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes until pork is cooked through and tofu has absorbed the flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro. Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice and a side of pickled vegetables or sautéed greens.

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Tips for the Best Đậu Hũ Nhồi Thịt

Use firm tofu so it holds its shape while stuffing and braising.

• Frying the tofu first creates a golden crust that absorbs sauce better.

• A little tomato paste deepens color and umami, but fresh tomatoes keep it light and fresh.

• Don't skip the sugar—it balances the tang of the tomatoes.

• This dish gets even better the next day as the flavors develop.

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Where to Shop in Austin

You can find firm tofu, ground pork, fish sauce, and fresh herbs at Asian markets in Austin like MT Supermarket, Viet Hoa, or 99 Ranch Market. These stores offer everything you need to create authentic Vietnamese home dishes and support local Asian-owned businesses.

Final Thoughts

Đậu Hũ Nhồi Thịt Sốt Cà Chua is the kind of meal that brings back memories of weeknight dinners, mom’s kitchen, and steaming bowls of rice. It’s humble, deeply satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this Vietnamese stuffed tofu recipe brings comfort and flavor in every bite.