Recipe Instructions:
Ingredients
2 servings
1 14-oz. package firm or extra-firm tofu, drained
1 Tbsp. black peppercorns
2 garlic cloves
1 1½" piece ginger, peeled
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
½ tsp. kosher salt
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb. asparagus, trimmed, cut into 1½" pieces
⅓ cup soy sauce
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. unseasoned rice vinegar
Cooked white or brown rice (for serving)
Preparation
Step 1
Wrap tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place in a shallow baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Weigh down with a
heavy object (a cast-iron skillet topped with a couple of heavy cans works well). Let sit at least 15 minutes and up to 1
hour (go the full time if you can).
Step 2
Meanwhile, coarsely crack peppercorns in a spice mill or with a mortar and pestle (you can use a chef’s knife or a very
heavy object, although be prepared for some peppercorns to fly!); set aside. Finely grate garlic and ginger into a smallbowl; set aside.
Step 3
Unwrap tofu and cut into 1" cubes. Transfer tofu to a medium bowl. Add cornstarch and salt and toss gently to coat tofu.
Step 4
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Arrange tofu in skillet in a single layer and cook, turning
occasionally, until golden brown and crisp all over, 6–8 minutes. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer to a large plate
or baking sheet.
Step 5
Reduce heat to medium and add reserved cracked pepper to skillet. Cook, stirring often, until very fragrant, about 2
minutes, then add asparagus and cook, stirring often, until bright green, about 1 minute. Add reserved garlic and ginger
and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 6
Return tofu to pan and gently toss to combine. Increase heat to medium-high, add soy sauce and sugar, and cook,
tossing occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and add vinegar. Taste and add
more salt and/or vinegar if needed.
Step 7
To serve, divide rice among plates and top with tofu mixture.
