Thai Basil Tofu Stir Fry

Ingredients:

• 1 lb firm tofu

• 1 T ghee, avocado oil or coconut oil for frying

• 1/2 onion, shallot or green onions, chopped (yield 3/4 cup)

• 3 garlic cloves, chopped

• 2 tsp ginger minced or grated

• 1/8 cup chopped thai basil

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

• 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)

• 1 cup chopped red pepper (optional)

Sauce:

• 2 T soy sauce

• 1 T fish sauce

• 1-3 tsp sriracha (depending on your pallet) or red hot sauce of your choice

• 1 T sucanat* or brown sugar

Here’s How:

1. Place tofu brick on a plate, place another plate on top and weight it to remove water by placing something heavy on top such as a cast iron skillet. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to press out excess liquid.

2. Prepare all the vegetables and set aside.

3. Mix sauce ingredients and set aside.

4. Use 2 saute pans, and saute the tofu in one of them for 5 or so minutes and set aside.

5. Heat the other pan, add the fat, onion and mushroom and saute until halfway done (3-5 minutes) then add garlic and ginger for another 2 minutes, then the rest of the veggies you have chosen and saute until done (5 minutes)

6. Add sauce and stir to coat.

7. Add basil and stir to wilt.

Serve with a green salad and grain of your choice.

*Sucanat is a natural cane sugar that retains its’ molasses content. It is similar in color to brown sugar.

Tofu is high in protein, calcium, low in calories and has 0 mg cholesterol. Soy is a bit controversial, especially when it is unfermented as is tofu. Scientific studies suggest that soy can create thyroid dysfunction, reproductive disorders and may be related to estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer.  However, eating a moderate amount can decrease estrogen levels(25-50 mg per week) 4oz=28grams

In summary, for vegans and vegetarians, it’s a nice source of protein. Once per week seems reasonable, especially if you don’t consume many other sources of protein!