Crispy Tofu with Bitter Greens

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €5.85 · €0.97/serving

• 1 1-pound block premium extra-firm tofuEst. price €1.80–€3.50
• 3 tablespoons artisanal low-sodium soy sauceEst. price €0.15–€0.40
• 2 tablespoons artisanal toasted sesame oilEst. price €0.35–€0.80
• 1/2 teaspoon fiery chili paste or exotic Tabasco sauce (optional)Est. price €0.05–€0.15
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juiceEst. price €0.20–€0.50
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger rootEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 6 cloves of pungent garlic, thinly sliced (slice evenly for consistent flavor)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
• 2 pounds of robust bitter greens, such as collard, mustard, baby bok choy, or dandelion, washed, trimmed, and torn into elegant pieces (massage greens with a touch of oil to reduce bitterness)Est. price €3.00–€6.00
• 1 teaspoon delicate toasted sesame seedsEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1/4 teaspoon aromatic crushed red pepper flakesEst. price €0.02–€0.06

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by slicing the tofu lengthwise into two equal halves, then cut each half horizontally into 6 slices. Arrange the tofu slices on a plate lined with paper towels. Place another layer of paper towels over the tofu and cover with an additional plate. Use soup cans to weigh down the top plate. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the paper towels to absorb any excess moisture from the tofu slices.

2. 2

   Begin by mixing soy sauce, sesame oil, chili paste or Tabasco sauce (if desired), lime juice, ginger, and garlic in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside. Next, place the tofu in another medium bowl and coat it with half of the prepared marinade. Allow the tofu to marinate for 30 minutes before proceeding.

3. 3

   Begin by heating a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the tofu in the pan in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook each side until it turns golden brown, which should take around 2 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the cooked tofu to a serving platter and continue with the remaining batches. Next, slowly add the greens to the skillet along with any remaining marinade. Cook them while tossing occasionally until they are wilted and most of the liquid has evaporated, typically for about 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer the cooked greens to the platter alongside the tofu. To finish, sprinkle sesame seeds and red pepper flakes over the dish before serving it up.

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• Cultural note

  Crispy tofu with bitter greens is a popular dish in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese and Japanese cooking. It showcases the balance of flavors and textures that are characteristic of Asian culinary traditions.

• Seasonal note

  Bitter greens are typically in season during the cooler months of fall and winter, making this dish ideal for autumn. Tofu is available year-round, but fresh ginger tends to be more abundant in the fall.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats from tofu and sesame oil. The bitter greens provide essential vitamins A, C, and K, while the chili paste and ginger offer potential anti-inflammatory benefits.