tasty tofu bites

a fun vegetarian appetizer!

I know some people aren't fans of tofu, and sometimes the soy bean curd gets a bad rep for being bland and funny in texture.  This is a great way to enjoy it, and it is a simple vegetarian appetizer that will satisfy your taste buds.  The spicy crispy outside and soft inside of the tofu mixed with the creamy but fresh peanut dipping sauce makes one delicious bite.

what you need:

• 1 package firm or extra firm tofu
• 2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp canola oil
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed 
• 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped finely
• zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp rice wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce 
• salt and pepper
• *optional: chopped cilantro can be added to the peanut sauce & garnish

what to do:

1. Combine peanut butter, ginger, lime zest and juice, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, and most of the green onions in a bowl.  (Save a little bit of the green onions for garnish).  Stir until a smooth sauce forms; set aside.
2. If your tofu came in water, be sure to pat it dry with a paper towel.  Cube into about 1/2" squares.  
3. In a pan, heat the canola oil on medium, then add garlic.  Do not let the garlic burn; once you see it start browning lightly and the oil has aromas of garlic, remove the smashed garlic from the pan.  Add red pepper flakes to oil.
4. Add tofu cubes (do not over crowd your pan or the tofu won't crisp up).  Flip the cubes every few minutes to get even browning on all sides.  Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Once the tofu is browned on all sides, remove from heat and plate.  Sprinkle chopped green onion on top for garnish.
6. Serve with the peanut dipping sauce & toothpicks.  Enjoy!