Date: 01/18/2025 01/19/2025
Location: Star Lake Meditation Center
Teacher: Shilin Long
Weekly Buddhist Cuisine Menu
Okra with Silken Tofu
Summary:
This is a light and refreshing vegan dish where tender okra meets delicate silken tofu, absorbing a simple yet flavorful seasoning, making it a healthy and delicious option.
Ingredients:
Okra 150g (trimmed and sliced)
Silken tofu 200g (cut into small cubes)
Red bell pepper 50g (sliced, optional)
Light soy sauce 1.5 tablespoons
Vegetarian oyster sauce 1 tablespoon (optional)
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
White pepper powder to taste (optional)
Five-spice powder 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Cornstarch 1 teaspoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, optional)
Vegetable oil 1 tablespoon
Water or vegetable broth 100ml
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Okra:
Wash and trim the okra, then slice diagonally. Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, drain well to remove excess stickiness.
2. Prepare the Tofu:
Cut silken tofu into small cubes and blanch in hot water for 30 seconds to firm up the texture and prevent breakage. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the Pan:
Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Add the red bell pepper (if using) and okra, stir-frying over medium heat for 1 minute until slightly softened.
4. Add the Tofu and Seasoning:
Gently add the silken tofu, then season with light soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce (optional), salt, white pepper powder (optional), and five-spice powder (optional). Stir carefully to avoid breaking the tofu.
5. Simmer for Flavor:
Pour in 100ml of water or vegetable broth, cover, and let simmer over low heat for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If the sauce is too thin, add the cornstarch slurry and stir gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy immediately. The okra is crisp, the tofu is silky, and the overall flavor is fresh and satisfying.
