The hoisin glaze in this recipe gives the tofu an appealing dark color and sautéing it first coated with a little cornstarch gives it a tempting texture, too. The recipe was inspired by one in Better Homes and Gardens magazine.
16oz.extra-firm tofudrained, wrapped it in a clean dishcloth for as long as possible (up to 12 hours), but at least 5 minutes, and cut it into 1-inch cubes
2Tbsp.canola or vegetable oil
2tsp. cornstarch
2Tbsp. hoisin sauce sold with Asian foods
2Tbsp.reduced-sodium soy sauce or use any variety, use wheat/gluten-free, if needed
1tsp.sesame oil
1/4tsp. crushed red pepper flakesoptional
16oz. green beans, fresh or frozentrimmed and halved
2clovesgarlicminced, about 1 tsp.
Instructions
First, In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with half of the cornstarch.
Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium heat.
When the oil is hot, add the tofu in a single layer and brown it, turning occasionally, for about 10 minutes until it is golden brown.
Using a spatula, transfer the tofu to a plate and set it aside.
Meanwhile, in the bowl that held the tofu, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes (optional), remaining cornstarch, and 1 Tbsp. water.
Add the green beans, garlic, and 2 Tbsp. water to the skillet and cook them for 2 – 3 minutes, then add the sauce, cook for 2 more minutes, then add the tofu and cook it all together for 1 more minute until the green beans are tender-crisp and nicely glazed with the sauce. Serve it immediately over rice or refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Notes
Do Ahead or Delegate: Drain, wrap, cut, and refrigerate the tofu, prepare the sauce, trim and halve the green beans, peel the garlic, or fully prepare and refrigerate the dish.Scramble Flavor Booster: Serve the dish with sriracha or other hot sauce.Tip: Need some more convincing to work tofu into your diet? Cup for cup, extra-firm tofu has up to 60 percent more calcium than milk.Like this recipe? Check out The Scramble's family-friendly meal plans to see just how simple getting dinner on the table can be!