Because of the high moisture content of tofu, it can go from a stir-fry to a braise in seconds. We also recommend salting and drying the tofu in paper towels so oil doesn't splatter during frying.

Makes 4 servings, about 3/4 cup each

ACTIVE TIME: 25 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 25 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

14 ounces water-packed firm tofu, rinsed
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, smashed
2 scallions, trimmed and chopped
1 1/2 cups sliced white mushrooms (about 4 ounces)
Sichuan Sauce (recipe follows)

1. Place tofu on several paper towels and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Turn tofu over, sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, place more paper towels on top and weight the tofu down with a plate. Set aside for 5 minutes. Cut the tofu into roughly 1-inch cubes.
2. Heat a 14-inch flat-bottomed wok or large skillet over high heat until a bead of water vaporizes within 1 to 2 seconds of contact. Swirl in 1 tablespoon oil; add garlic and scallions and stir-fry until fragrant, 10 seconds. Add mushrooms and stir-fry until just beginning to soften, 1 minute. Transfer to a plate.
3. Swirl the remaining 1 tablespoon oil into the pan, reduce the heat to medium, add the tofu and pan-fry, turning midway through cooking, until it begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Swirl in Sichuan Sauce and the mushroom mixture; increase the heat to high and stir-fry until the tofu is just heated through and the sauce clings to it, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Discard the garlic. Serve immediately.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 233 calories; 16 g fat (2 g sat, 6 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 9 g carbohydrate; 17 g protein; 3 g fiber; 383 mg sodium; 448 mg potassium.

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium (70% daily value), Selenium (29% dv), Magnesium (16% dv), Iron (15% dv).


0 Carbohydrate Servings

TIP: Chinkiang is a dark, slightly sweet vinegar with a smoky flavor. It is available in many Asian specialty markets. If unavailable, balsamic vinegar is an acceptable substitute.

RELATED RECIPES: Sichuan Sauce