Method
- Pat tofu dry. Heat 30ml oil in a wok; pan-fry tofu 6 minutes total, turning, until golden on all sides. Remove.
- Wash and roughly chop the greens.
- Heat remaining oil in the wok. Cook onion 2 minutes.
- Add garlic, ginger and chilies; stir 60 seconds.
- Add greens; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add soy sauce, salt, sugar and water.
- Return tofu. Toss. Serve immediately with rice.
Common questions
Can Modo Tahu be made ahead?
Modo Tahu is best made and eaten the same day, but the components can be prepped earlier — chop and measure the ingredients up to a day ahead, refrigerated separately. Final cooking takes about 12 minutes.
Is Modo Tahu spicy?
Modo Tahu as written is mild to mildly warming — the heat comes from aromatics rather than chili. Add fresh sliced chili or chili oil at the end if you'd like to push it spicier.
Is Modo Tahu vegetarian or gluten-free?
This recipe is suitable for most diets. If you have specific restrictions, the substitutions section in each ingredient note covers the most common swaps.
How hard is Modo Tahu to make at home?
Modo Tahu is approachable for a home cook with basic stove skills — total time about 27 minutes, no special technique required.
Can Modo Tahu be scaled up or down?
This recipe is written for 4 servings. To scale, multiply each ingredient proportionally; the cooking times stay the same up to about double the volume. Beyond that, expect to cook in batches because of pan size and heat distribution.
Cultural Note
Modo tahu is the Timorese highland greens-and-tofu dish — everyday food in rural Timor. The dish reflects Timor's mix of indigenous Maubere and Indonesian-Chinese culinary influences in the use of soy and tofu.
