Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 block of firm tofu (14 oz)
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 green onion, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
a. Drain the tofu and cut it into small cubes.
b. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat.
c. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 10 seconds.
d. Add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
e. Add the cubed tofu, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, white pepper, and 2 cups of water.
f. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
g. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
h. Add the cornstarch mixture to the wok or skillet and stir well.
i. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
j. Turn off the heat and add the chopped green onion and sesame oil (optional).
k. Serve hot with steamed rice.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for stir-frying
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Total fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total carbohydrates: 11g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of mushrooms you like.
- You can use chicken or beef instead of tofu.
Variations:
- You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas.
- You can add some chili paste or hot sauce for a spicy version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the tofu well before using it.
- You can marinate the tofu in soy sauce and sesame oil for extra flavor.
- Use a non-stick wok or skillet to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Lao Guo La in a large bowl with steamed rice on the side.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Pairings:
- Steamed rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Egg rolls
Suggested side dishes:
- Stir-fried bok choy
- Steamed broccoli
- Fried rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more water.
- If the sauce is too thin, add more cornstarch.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the tofu and mushrooms thoroughly.
Food history:
- Lao Guo La is a traditional Chinese dish that originated in Sichuan province.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, umami, slightly sweet, and peppery.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes.
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Region: Chinese