Fried Tofu With Wasabi Oil And Soy Syrup

Ingredients

• 1 (20 oz.) block firm tofu
• 1 c. flour or cornstarch
• 1 TB favorite nori furikake (seasoned seaweed)
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 tsp. Thai chili garlic paste
• 1 tsp. fresh ginger (grated)
• pinch white pepper
• oil for frying
• 1/4 c. wasabi powder
• 2 tsp. water
• 1 1/2 tsp. mirin
• 1/2 tsp. brown sugar
• 1/4 c. vegetable oil
• 1 c. Aloha shoyu
• 1/4 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
• juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime

Instructions

1. 1

   Slice tofu in half lengthwise, then slice each half in fourths; drain well.

2. 2

   In separate shallow dishes; place flour/cornstarch and furikake; whisk together eggs, garlic paste, ginger and pepper.

3. 3

   Dredge tofu in flour mixture, then in egg mixture, and again in flour mixture.

4. 4

   In a skillet over medium high heat; brown tofu in oil.

5. 5

   Drain on paper towels.

6. 6

   Oil: In a blender, process all ingredients until smooth; adding oil slowly.

7. 7

   Allow to sit 30 minutes.

8. 8

   Makes ½ cup.

9. 9

   Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat; bring all ingredients to a boil.

10. 10

    Reduce heat; simmer until syrupy about 6-8 minutes.

11. 11

    Makes ¾ cups.

12. 12

    --- How To Serve: ---

13. 13

    For service: Drizzle tofu with oil and syrup.

14. 14

    Variation: Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes; follow directions as given.

15. 15

    Serves 4.