Sichuan Style Spicy Tofu Salad

Sichuan Style Spicy Tofu Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines soft tofu with a spicy, tangy dressing, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This gluten-free salad is perfect for a light yet satisfying supper that awakens the taste buds.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu - 200 grams
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, thinly sliced
• Cucumber - 1 medium, julienned
• Carrot - 1 medium, julienned
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Scallions - 2, sliced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Sichuan peppercorns - 1 teaspoon, toasted and ground
• Soy sauce (gluten-free) - 2 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Chili oil - 2 tablespoons
• Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste

Steps

1. Press the tofu for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a splash of chili oil. Cook the tofu cubes until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, chopped cilantro, and scallions.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, ground Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame oil, sugar, and salt to create the dressing.
5. Add the cooled tofu to the bowl with the vegetables and pour the dressing over the top. Gently toss to combine all ingredients well.
6. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Nutrition

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 14 g
• Carbs: 12 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from tofu, making it a great plant-based option.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, supporting overall health.

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