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Crisp Tofu with Vegetables and Sesame-Ginger Dipping Sauce

Low in calories and saturated fat, tofu provides a healthful source of protein and makes an energizing snack. Pressing the tofu extracts some of the liquid so it will crisp in the oven.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Serves 4

Ingredients

21 ounces (1 1/2 packages) firm tofu, drained and halved crosswise
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (page 57)
1 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Coarse salt
5 teaspoons coarsely chopped peeled fresh ginger
1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
5 teaspoons low-sodium tamari soy sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
3 tablespoons cool water
8 ounces green beans, trimmed
1/2 head green cabbage, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges
1 red bell pepper, ribs and seeds removed, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick strips

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Place tofu on a rimmed baking sheet lined with a double layer of paper towels; cover with another double layer of paper towels. Place a baking sheet on top, and weight with canned goods or a heavy skillet. Let drain 30 minutes, then transfer to a cutting board and pat dry with more paper towels.

    Step 2

    Cut tofu into 24 pieces and place in a bowl. Add sesame seeds, 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; toss to combine. Arrange tofu in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until golden brown and lightly crisp on bottom, 12 to 15 minutes. Use a spatula to flip tofu, and bake until other side is crisp, about 10 minutes more. Transfer to a plate and let cool completely.

    Step 3

    Pulse ginger in a food processor until finely chopped. Add tahini, tamari, honey, remaining 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and the vinegar; process until combined. With machine running, add the water. Process until smooth.

    Step 4

    Prepare an ice-water bath. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch green beans until crisp-tender and bright green, 1 to 2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer beans to the ice bath to stop the cooking. Let cool, stirring frequently, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.

    Step 5

    Divide green beans, cabbage, bell pepper, and tofu into four servings. Divide sauce among four small cups for dipping, and serve within 2 hours, or refrigerate, covered, for up to 1 day.

  2. NUTRITION INFORMATION

    Step 6

    (Per Serving)

    Step 7

    Calories: 314

    Step 8

    Saturated Fat: 2.3g

    Step 9

    Unsaturated Fat: 8g

    Step 10

    Cholesterol: 0mg

    Step 11

    Carbohydrates: 21.3g

    Step 12

    Protein: 19.4g

    Step 13

    Sodium: 412mg

    Step 14

    Fiber: 6.7g

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