Sweet and Sour Tofu

Sweet and Sour Tofu

The scallion and ginger are sliced large enough to pick out, should anyone at the table object.

Tofu:

1 pound firm tofu, patted dry cut into 1-inch cubes
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
¾ teaspoon salt

Sauce:

2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons raw or light brown sugar
2 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon low-sodium tamari

Stir-Fry:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 scallions, trimmed and cut into 1-inch lengths
1 inch fresh ginger root, peeled and cut into coins
1 cup diced red or green bell peppers (optional)
½ cup diced fresh or canned pineapple

Steamed brown rice and steamed green beans or broccoli, for serving
Sesame seeds and/or chili pepper flakes, for garnishing

Method

1. In a bowl, toss the tofu with the cornstarch, sesame oil and salt. Set aside. In a cup, whisk together all the sauce ingredients.

2. In a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Add the tofu and fry, turning, until crisp and golden on all sides, 5 minutes. Add the scallions, ginger, and bell pepper if using and continue to stir-fry for 2 minutes.

3. Add the sauce and stir until it is thick and clings to the tofu, 2 minutes. Serve over rice, sprinkling sesame seeds or a pinch of chili pepper on top if desired.