Tofu-King Good

vegetarian

Ingredients for Tofu

  • 1 block extra firm tofu, drained
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp five spice powder
  • 1/2 tsp ginger, ground
  • 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Ingredients for Maple Glaze

  • 1/4 cup tamari
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp five spice powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  • To make the tofu, place the drained tofu on a sheet pan lined with paper towels or an absorbent tea towel. Add more paper towels or another tea towel on top, followed by another sheet pan. Place something heavy on top of the sheet pan (cans, cast iron skillet, etc.) and let sit for about 30 minutes.
  • Once the tofu has been pressed, cut it into 1-inch cubes and transfer to a large bowl. Add the salt, five spice powder, ground ginger and crushed red pepper and let sit for 10 minutes. Add the cornstarch to the seasoned tofu and toss to coat evenly.
  • When ready to cook, add canola oil to a large heavy-bottomed skillet and heat over medium high heat. When oil is shimmering, add half of the tofu and fry on each side until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining tofu. Set cooked tofu aside on a cooling rack while you cook the vegetables and glaze.
  • Wipe out the skillet, add sesame oil and heat over medium-high. Once it starts to simmer – add garlic, ground ginger, and sliced red pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Stir fry for about 3 minutes. Add 1/4 cup cold water, cover and cook for about 3 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate small saucepan bring tamari, maple syrup and vinegar to a boil. Reduce heat, add in five spice powder and crushed red pepper and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until thickened. Turn off the heat, add some sriracha & lime juice and season with salt & pepper.
  • Add the cooked tofu to a large bowl and drizzle the warm glaze on top. Gently toss the tofu in the glaze, being sure to coat every surface.

Gouda Tip: Serve your Spicy Maple Glazed Tofu over a bowl of sticky rice. Garnish with scallions, cilantro and black & white sesame seeds.