Mapo Tofu

2 blocks of firm silken tofu drained, washed and chopped into 2 inch cubes

1 cup of ground chicken or pork (optional)

1 cup of chopped spinach or finely chopped broccoli (optional)

4 stalks of scallion washed and chopped fine

3 garlic cloves crushed

3 tablespoons oil

2 teaspoons of sesame oil

Combine in a bowl:

2 teaspoon of cornstarch

1 tablespoon of water

Combine in another bowl:

1 cup chicken/ vegetable broth

1 & 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce

3 tablespoons of red  or white miso

3 tablespoons sake

2 tablespoons of Mirin

1 teaspoon sugar

1 tablespoon small scallion minced for garnishing

METHOD:

• Heat oil and add garlic.
• Stir for a minute and add scallions

• Add ground meat and cook till cooked through (optional).
• Add the chopped vegetables.
• Then add the broth mixture and let it cook for 5 minutes.

• Add soy sauce.
• Add the chopped tofu and mix well.
• Cook for 5 minutes and add the cornstarch mixed with water.
• Cook till the dish begins to thicken.
• Add sesame oil, garnish with scallion and serve hot with white rice.