Savory Braised Bean Curd Sticks in Chicken Broth

1. Soak the Bean Curd Sticks

Start by soaking the bean curd sticks in hot water for about 20 minutes. This will rehydrate them, making them soft and pliable. Place them in a large bowl and cover with enough hot water to ensure they are fully submerged.

2. Prepare the Bean Curd Sticks

Once the bean curd sticks have soaked and softened, drain them thoroughly. Use a sharp knife to cut them into manageable lengths. This step ensures they are ready to absorb the flavors of the broth.

3. Boil the Chicken Stock with Bean Curd Sticks

Pour the chicken stock into a pot and add the cut bean curd sticks. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. You'll know it's ready when the stock starts bubbling vigorously. Boiling at this stage helps the bean curd sticks begin to soak up the savory flavors of the chicken broth.

4. Simmer the Bean Curd Sticks

Once the stock is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, leaving the lid slightly cracked. Simmer the bean curd sticks in the chicken broth for 20 minutes. This gentle cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and savory dish.

5. Allow to Cool in the Liquid

After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and let the bean curd sticks cool in the broth for about 5 minutes. This pause helps to lock in the flavors further.

6. Drain and Reserve

Carefully drain the bean curd sticks using a strainer, ensuring you reserve the broth. The remaining broth can be used for other recipes or enjoyed as a flavorful soup.

7. Store if Needed

If you prefer to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can store the braised bean curd sticks in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply cover them and keep them in an airtight container.