Wisdom Quarterly: American Buddhist Journal: Tofu versatility in Korean BBQ (cooking)

Monday, October 21, 2024

Tofu versatility in Korean BBQ (cooking)

Tofu can be mild as we "eat beans not beings," on a nice bed of fragrant rice like devas.

Tofu can be wild, super spicy Szechuan style or crispy and covered in Korean BBQ sauce.

Tofu shines in 'Culinary Class Wars,' demonstrating its versatility

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(Netflix K-Content) English subtitles. Oct. 8, 2024: Culinary Class Wars is now playing, only on Netflix. Who knew tofu could be such a versatile ingredient? The chefs conjure up dishes using soybean-based food for a chance to book a spot in the finals. Both Black Spoon and White Spoon chefs show that even bland and boring tofu curd (a plain plant-based cheese) can be just as flavorful as any other protein because it absorbs whatever flavor is added -- soy sauce, Bragg's aminos, ginger, chili, bouillon, garlic, onions, BBQ sauce. #CulinaryClassWars #PaikJongwon #AnhSungjae #Netflix #KContent

Tofu shines in Korean Netflix show

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Tofu's boring, like meat, which makes it versatile

Tofu, recently highlighted by the Netflix cooking survival show "Culinary Class Wars," holds a special place in the hearts of Koreans for its humble yet versatile appeal.

Tofu, or dubu in Korean, is created by soaking soybeans, blending them into a puree, coagulating the mixture, and pressing the curds into solid white blocks of varying softness.

There are 1,001 vegan foods to make out of it.

A long-standing staple in Korean cuisine, tofu serves not only as a rich source of plant protein but also embodies the simplicity and balance that are integral to Korean culinary heritage.

The role of tofu in Korea's culinary history is closely linked to Buddhism and Buddhist temple cuisine, where vegetarian diets were central. Meat (made from often tortured and always murdered animals) is heavy bad karma. Tofu, which rich in protein and harmless (depending on cultivation practices), became an essential part of temple meals. This connection is not unique to Korea. Japan and China also cultivated rich tofu cultures through their Buddhist traditions.

Tofu's significance in Korean cuisine was recently spotlighted in the semifinals of the hit culinary show, where the seven remaining contestants were tasked with continuously creating inventive tofu dishes until they faced elimination.

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While the show's contestants showcased tofu's versatility — crafting everything from Auntie Omakase #1's comforting Korean classics to Korean American Chef Edward Lee's sophisticated fusion creations with a touch of Western technique — each dish quickly went viral among Korean culinary enthusiasts, largely due to tofu's deep-rooted significance in the country’s culinary tradition.

The competition paid homage to tofu's integral role in Korean kitchens, where it has connected generations and sustained families. From stews to side dishes, tofu has been at the heart of Korea's ever-evolving food culture.