Shanghai-Style Mi Dou Fu with Black Bean Sauce and Scallions

Shanghainese savory dishes are typically characterized by their sweetness—this superb one is no exception. Smoother and more gelatinous than regular tofu, mi dou fu is made from rice instead of soybeans. It is available in some Asian markets in the refrigerated section, next to the regular tofu, or behind the deli counter. Medium-firm tofu, cut into triangles and blanched in boiling water 1 minute, drained well, can stand in for the mi dou fu, if necessary. Though optional, the yellow buds of the flowering Chinese chive lend a subtle hint of garlic as well as a sophisticated, festive touch.

MAKES 4 TO 6 SERVINGS

12 ounces mi dou fu (rice tofu), drained, as needed

1 tablespoon peanut oil

6 to 8 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger

1 tablespoon rinsed and drained fermented black beans, left whole (optional)

2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped

2 tablespoons black bean sauce

2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine, dry sherry, sake, or dry white wine

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon black vinegar or balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce

1⁄2 teaspoon toasted (dark) sesame oil

Chinese flowering chive buds, for garnish (optional)

Cut mi dou fu into 4 squares and then cut each square into 2 triangles. Turn each triangle on its longest side and cut into 3 thin triangles for a total of 24 thin triangles. Set aside. In a wok or large nonstick skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallions, ginger, fermented black beans (if using), and garlic; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and add the black bean sauce, wine, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil; cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add the mi dou fu and cook, turning and stirring often, until mi dou fu is heated through and sauce is bubbly, about 3 minutes. Serve at once, garnished with the flowering chive buds, if using.

{PER SERVING} Calories 387 • Protein 1g • Total Fat 5g • Sat Fat 1g • Cholesterol 0mg • Carbohydrate 84g • Dietary Fiber 1g • Sodium 258mg

hancheng

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