Sunday, February 1, 2009

Experience Tofus Versatility with Simple Tofu Recipes

By Doug Schlette

Tofu is a versatile food that can be used for just about any dish. You can use tofu to prepare breakfast, main dish, side dish, salads, desserts and soups using simple tofu recipes. Not only does it taste delicious but tofu also offers health and nutritional value. Tofu is made using soy foods and the health benefits of soy foods are well known. It is known to help breast cancer patients, helping or improving cardiovascular system, lower blood pressure and many more.

Tofu contains a great amount of iron but contains no cholesterol, no saturated fats and fewer amounts of calories. Tofu may also be high in calcium and magnesium, depending on coagulant which is used during it manufacturing.

Tofu is easily available in the market. You can either purchase tofu from market or prepare it at home. There are two types of tofu: firm tofu and soft tofu. Firm tofu is generally used for deep-frying, stews and soups while the soft tofu is used from making variety of dishes, creamed soups, desserts and many other dishes.

Getting simple tofu recipes is not very difficult. Tofu recipes are easily available over the internet. All you have to do is search the internet and get simple tofu recipes. Alternatively, one can also get a cookbook containing simple tofu recipes from a nearby bookstore. Just follow the directions given in the recipe and prepare a delicious tofu dish. Ensure perfection by following useful tips along with the recipe.

Given are tips for you to help you when you are preparing tofu dishes. For firm tofu, freeze tofu overnight. Thaw out the tofu the next day and squeeze the water after that. When you are cooking tofu, ensure that you stir it continuously in oil otherwise it will stick to the bottom. It is advisable to use a long spoon to maintain distance as oil can splash and burn your hand. One should ensure that the tofu is fully cooked otherwise from the inside it will be left uncooked while on the outside it will feel tough. When done, tofu generally rises to the top of the oil. When cooked, place tofu on paper towel so that extra oil is absorbed.

Here is a simple tofu recipe for you. The ingredients required are: a. Tofu(firm)- 4 pieces b. Salt- as per requirement c. Oil- as per requirement (for deep-frying) d. Cucumber (finely shredded) " 1 cup e. Bean sprouts " 1 cup

Cut the tofu in triangular shape and then dry them with paper towel. After this rub the surface with salt. Now deep fry the tofu in hot oil till tofu are deep brown and edges crispy. Dry them on a paper towel. Now cut tofu horizontally to insert filling.

Blanch the beans sprouts and use cold water to rinse them. Then mix together with shredded cucumber. Now gently stuff the filling into the tofu. Serve the dish with chili sauce. - 15634

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