VEGAN MA PO TOFU RECIPES

Steps:

• Remove stems from mushrooms. Make a light mushroom broth by simmering stems in 2 cups water for 15 minutes, then strain and reserve broth (discard stems). Dice mushroom caps and set aside.
• Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes. Cover with boiling salted water, let steep for 15 minutes, then drain.
• Put oil in a wok or wide skillet over medium heat. Add red peppers, black beans and bean paste and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add garlic and ginger and let sizzle, then add mushrooms, soy sauce, sesame oil and Sichuan pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups mushroom broth and cook mixture gently for 2 minutes.
• Carefully add tofu cubes. Shake pan to distribute sauce, using a wooden spoon to help. Try to avoid smashing tofu. Drizzle in cornstarch mixture, gently swirling pan to incorporate (sauce will thicken) and simmer tofu in sauce for 2 minutes more. Thin with a little mushroom broth if necessary. Transfer to a low bowl or platter. Sprinkle with scallions and cilantro sprigs.

Steps:

• Cover the mushrooms with hot water and let stand 1 hour. Drain and cut into 1/8-inch pieces. Set aside.
• Place the tofu in a large sieve. Bring 8 cups (2 L) of water to a boil. Pour into a metal bowl just larger than the sieve and place the sieve inside. Let soak for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
• Mix 5 tablespoons. of cold water with the broth, chili oil, bean sauce, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or heavy, large skillet over high heat for 1 minute. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the mushroom pieces and “beef” and stir-fry for 1 minute. Stir the broth mixture and add to the wok with the peas and carrots. Stir-fry until reaches a boil, about 1 minute. Add the tofu and toss gently to coat. Cook 2 1/2 minutes, tossing gently.
• Divide between plates. Garnish with the cilantro and sprinkle with the pepper.