Vegetarian Recipes - Crisp-fried Tofu in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

• vegetable or groundnut (peanut) oil, for deep-frying

• 450g/1lb firm tofu, rinsed and cut into bite size cubes

• 4 shallots, finely sliced

• 1 fresh red chili, seeded and chopped

• 25g/1oz fresh root ginger, peeled and finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 6 large ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded and finely chopped

• 15-30ml/1-2 tbsp light soy sauce

• 10ml/2 tsp sugar

• mint leaves and strips of fresh red chili, to garnish

• ground black pepper

Serves 4

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Method:

1. Heat enough oil for deep-frying in a wok or heavy pan. Fry the tofu, in batches, until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.

2. Reserve 30ml/2 tbsp oil in the wok. Add the shallots, chili, ginger and garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Stir in the tomatoes, soy sauce and sugar.

3. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes until it resembles a sauce. Stir in 105ml/7 tbsp water and bring to the boil.

4. Season with a little pepper and return the tofu to the pan. Mix well and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to heat through.

5. Spoon into heated bowls, garnish with mint leaves and chili strips and serve immediately.

Note: This is a light, tasty tofu-based dish. Soy sauce is used here, but fish sauce can be substituted for those who eat fish. You can use a combination of vegetable and peanut oils if you want the nutty taste without fear of burning.

Cook's Tip: This recipe is delicious as a side dish or as a main dish with noodles or rice. It is nutritious too. thanks to the tofu. which is an excellent vegetable protein. tree from cholesterol.