Recipe: Fried Tofu and Vegetables

FRIED TOFU AND VEGETABLES

"Crisp, cornmeal-crusted tofu tops a colorful m lange of sweet peppers and pea pods. To ensure a pleasing texture for fried tofu, be sure to purchase the extra-firm variety."

1 (10-1/2-ounce) package light extra-firm tofu, well-drained
3 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari sauce or soy sauce
8 green onions
8 ounces fresh pea pods (2 cups)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 medium red sweet pepper, cut into thin strips
1 medium yellow sweet pepper, cut into thin strips
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1 tablespoon white or black sesame seeds, toasted* (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)

Cut tofu crosswise into 8 slices. Arrange slices in a single layer on a large plate or shallow baking pan. Pour tamari sauce over tofu; turn slices to coat. Cover and let stand for 1 hour.

Meanwhile, trim ends of green onions, leaving 3 inches of white and light green parts. Cut green onions in half lengthwise, forming 16 strips. Trim ends of pea pods and remove strings; cut pea pods in half lengthwise.

Pour sesame oil into a 12-inch nonstick skillet. Preheat over medium-high heat. Stir-fry red and yellow peppers in hot oil for 1 minute.

Add green onions and pea pods. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes more or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Remove skillet from heat.

Drain tofu, reserving tamari sauce. Stir the tamari sauce into cooked vegetables. Transfer to a serving platter; cover and keep warm.

Carefully dip the tofu slices in cornmeal to lightly coat both sides. In the same skillet cook tofu about 6 minutes or until crisp and heated through, gently turning once.

For each serving, place a tofu slice on a dinner plate. Top with cooked vegetables and another slice of tofu. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs. Serve immediately.

*To toast sesame seeds, in a nonstick skillet cook and stir sesame seeds over medium heat about minute 1 or just until golden brown. Watch closely so the seeds don't burn. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl to cool completely.

Makes 4 servings
Source: Better Homes and Gardens 3 Steps to Weight Loss by Lawrence Cheskin, M.D.