Stir-Fried Cabbage & Yuba (Tofu Skin) in Tomato Sauce

Yuba, or tofu skin, is the protein-rich film that forms on boiling soy milk. Its texture is meaty and elastic, perfect for absorbing flavors. In this recipe, the natural acidity (umami) of tomatoes meets the sweetness of cabbage, creating a light yet satisfying dish reminiscent of Chinese home-style cooking (jiācháng cài).
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 35 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 220 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Asian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy

Instructions

1

Prep the veggies: Slice cabbage into finger-width strips, chop tomatoes into large chunks. Crush and mince the garlic, slice the scallions.

Tip: Don't chop tomatoes too small so they don't turn completely into mush.
2

Cut the Yuba into 1-2 inch pieces. If using rehydrated dried yuba, squeeze out excess water.

Tip: Yuba's folded surface is great for holding onto sauce.
3

Heat oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and the white parts of the scallions, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.

Tip: Aromatic layering gives the dish its base.
4

Add tomatoes and cook over high heat until skins start to wrinkle and they release juices.

Tip: Tomato sugars caramelize, deepening the flavor.
5

Add the cabbage, salt, and pepper. Toss and steam covered for 5 minutes until cabbage wilts.

Tip: Salt helps draw moisture out of the cabbage (osmosis), so it steams in its own juice.
6

Add the Yuba pieces and a splash of water if needed (about 1/4 cup). Cook uncovered for another 3-4 minutes until liquid evaporates and sauce coats everything.

Tip: Yuba acts like a sponge for the garlicky tomato juices.
7

Turn off heat, stir in scallion greens and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Tip: Add fresh herbs at the end to keep their color and aroma vibrant.

Recipe FAQ

Where can I find Yuba?
Available in Asian markets dried (sticks) or fresh/frozen sheets. If using dried, soak in warm water before use.
What cabbage should I use?
Flat cabbage (Taiwanese cabbage) or Savoy cabbage are great, but regular green cabbage works perfectly too.

Ingredients

  • 5 oz Yuba (Bean Curd Sheets) - soaked if dried
  • 10 oz Green Cabbage
  • 2 large Ripe Tomatoes
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 2 stalks Scallions (Green Onions)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Wok Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Freshly Ground Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Cilantro