Tofu with Mushrooms & Peas

Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the delicate flavors of tofu with earthy Chinese mushrooms and sweet peas. This recipe features crispy deep-fried tofu cubes tossed in cornflour for a golden and crunchy texture. The tofu is then stir-fried with garlic, ginger, rehydrated Chinese mushrooms, and fresh peas, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a standalone main course or served alongside steamed rice or noodles. It is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner. Follow the simple steps below to create a satisfying and flavorful tofu dish that will please both vegetarians and tofu lovers alike.

INGREDIENTS:

• 25g/1oz dried Chinese mushrooms
• 450g/1lb firm tofu
• 25g/1oz cornflour
• Vegetable oil for deep-frying
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2.5cm/1in piece of fresh root ginger, grated
• 100g/4oz fresh peas

PREPARATIONS:

1. Put the dried Chinese mushrooms in a large bowl and pour enough boiling water to cover them. Leave them to stand for about 10 minutes to rehydrate.
2. Meanwhile, cut the firm tofu into bite-size cubes using a sharp knife.
3. Place the cornflour in a large bowl and add the tofu cubes. Toss the tofu in the cornflour until evenly coated.
4. Heat enough vegetable oil for deep-frying in a large preheated wok.
5. Add the coated tofu cubes to the hot oil in batches and deep-fry them for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu from the oil and drain them on kitchen paper.
6. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of oil from the wok.
7. Add the finely chopped garlic, grated ginger, and rehydrated Chinese mushrooms to the wok. Stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes.
8. Return the cooked tofu to the wok and add the fresh peas. Heat the mixture through for 1 minute.
9. Serve the Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas hot.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Be careful when deep-frying the tofu to avoid splatters. Use a deep-fry thermometer or test the oil by dropping a small piece of tofu into it. The oil should bubble gently around the tofu.
• Adjust the amount of garlic, ginger, and peas according to your taste preference.

TIPS:

• Serve the Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas as a standalone main course or as a side dish alongside steamed rice or noodles.
• Customize the dish by adding other vegetables such as sliced bell peppers or baby corn.
• Garnish the dish with chopped spring onions or fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
• For a healthier option, you can pan-fry the tofu instead of deep-frying it.

YIELD:

Serves 4.

Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas is a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the versatility of tofu. This recipe combines crispy deep-fried tofu cubes with rehydrated Chinese mushrooms, garlic, ginger, and fresh peas, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas can be enjoyed as a standalone main course or served alongside steamed rice or noodles.

To prepare this dish, the dried Chinese mushrooms are rehydrated in boiling water while the firm tofu is cut into bite-size cubes and coated with cornflour. The tofu cubes are then deep-fried until golden and crispy. The stir-frying process involves sautéing garlic, ginger, and rehydrated mushrooms, followed by adding the deep-fried tofu and fresh peas to heat through.

Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the garlic and ginger levels according to your taste preference. Serve the Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas as a delicious and wholesome meal that will satisfy vegetarians and tofu enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a flavorful vegetarian dish, Tofu with Mushrooms and Peas is a fantastic choice. Its combination of crispy tofu, tender mushrooms, and sweet peas will surely please your taste buds.