Braised Fish Head with Tofu (Hong Shao Yu Tou Dou Fu — 红烧鱼头豆腐) is a comforting, rich, and nourishing Chinese dish. It features tender fish head braised with soft tofu in a flavorful soy-based sauce. Popular in Shanghai and other parts of China, this dish is believed to promote brain health and provide warmth — making it perfect for family dinners and cold-weather meals.

📝 Dish Name

Braised Fish Head with Tofu (Hong Shao Yu Tou Dou Fu — 红烧鱼头豆腐)

🕒 Time Required

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 3–4 people

🐠 Ingredients

Main:

Big fish head (carp, salmon, or grouper) – 1 (about 600–800 g)

Soft tofu (silken or medium firm) – 1 block (cut into cubes)

Salt – 1 tsp

Shaoxing wine – 2 tbsp

Ginger – 3-inch piece (sliced)

Scallions – 3 (cut into sections)
Oil – 3 tbsp

Sauce:

Light soy sauce – 4 tbsp

Dark soy sauce – 1 tbsp

Oyster sauce – 1 tbsp

Sugar – 1 tbsp

Water or stock – 2 cups

Optional:

White pepper – ½ tsp

Cilantro – for garnish

👨‍🍳 How to Make Braised Fish Head with Tofu

1. Prepare the Fish Head

Clean the fish head thoroughly and pat dry.

Cut it in half lengthwise if it’s large.

Rub with salt and Shaoxing wine; marinate for 10–15 minutes to remove any fishy smell.

2. Pan-Fry the Fish Head

Heat oil in a deep wok or pan.

Fry the fish head skin-side down until lightly golden.

Carefully flip and fry the other side. This step locks in flavor and keeps the head intact during braising.

3. Add Aromatics and Sauce

Push the fish head to the side.

Add ginger and scallions; stir-fry until fragrant.

Pour in Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water or stock.

Bring to a gentle boil.

4. Add Tofu and Braise

Gently slide the tofu cubes into the pan.

Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to absorb.

Occasionally spoon sauce over the tofu and fish head, but avoid stirring too much to prevent breaking the tofu.

5. Finish and Serve

  • Once the sauce slightly thickens and the tofu has absorbed the flavor, sprinkle white pepper on top.

  • Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallion greens.

🥢 Serving Suggestions

Serve hot as a main dish with steamed rice.

Ideal for family-style meals.

Pairs beautifully with light stir-fried greens.

🧡 Pro Tips

Pan-frying the fish head first prevents it from breaking during braising.

Handle the tofu gently — soft tofu gives the best texture but needs extra care.

Using stock instead of plain water adds extra umami depth.

For an even richer flavor, add a few pieces of shiitake mushrooms while braising.

✨ Braised Fish Head with Tofu is a humble yet luxurious dish — silky tofu, tender fish, and a deep, savory sauce make it a true comfort food in Chinese cuisine. Perfect for both everyday family dinners and special occasions.