Chinese Sliced Tofu Salad (凉拌豆腐丝)

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced tofu
• 4 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic (, minced)
• 1 carrot (, shredded)
• 1 cucumber (, slices (or pepper, or celery))
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce ((or tamari for gluten-free option))
• 1/2 teaspoon salt ((or to taste))
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons homemade chili oil ((Optional))
• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro for garnish ((Optional))

Steps

1. 1

   Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the sliced tofu and stir for a few seconds. Rinse the sliced tofu with tap water, drain thoroughly, and set aside to cool.

2. 2

   Add sesame oil and garlic into a small bowl. Heat in microwave for 30 seconds, or cook until the oil just starts to bubble and the garlic turns tender.(*Footnote 1)

3. 3

   Right before serving, add sliced tofu, carrot and bell peppers into a big bowl. Add the sesame oil and garlic, green onion, rice vinegar, salt, and chili oil (if using). Toss to mix well.

4. 4

   Garnish with cilantro and serve as an appetizer.