GINGER TOFU DIP WITH VEGETABLES

"The silky texture and neutral flavor of soft tofu make it an ideal medium for distinctive seasonings in this high-protein, lowfat dip for crisp vegetables."

1 pound soft tofu
1/4 cup sliced green onion
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
1 tablespoon oriental sesame oil
about 2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
6 cups raw vegetables, such as cucumber slices, carrot sticks, red or green bell pepper strips, small celery stalks, sugar snap peas, and cherry tomatoes

Rinse tofu under cool running water, let drain, then drop into a blender or food processor. Whirl smoothly with onion, ginger, garlic, oil, soy sauce, and cayenne. If made ahead, cover and chill up to 3 days.

TO SERVE:
Pour into a small bowl; accompany with vegetables. Scoop onto vegetables to eat.

Makes about 1 3/4 cups, 7 to 9 servings (3 or 4 tablespoons each)
Source: Sunset Recipe Annual, 1991 Edition