Tofu?

I've never had a desire or an opportunity thrown at me to purchase or try tofu. In the recent months, my nutrition side of my brain has been active and I've been making more sound food choices at the grocery store. I would love to say that I've dived right in without any looking back at the processed sugars and "bad-list" foods available, but I do feel good about the steps I've taken and slowly my family will come along with me.

I have significantly reduced our intake of meat for two main reasons: to help me stay within my grocery budget and I don't feel like our bodies need to eat meat regularly. Meal planning is much more of a challenge (a fun one) without a meat as the center of each meal. I have been pleased with some of the meals I have created though and my joy is full when I hear my husband say something like, "I'm actually enjoying this!" Although I could do without the "actually" in there. 

Last week, I cooked with tofu for the first time. I made a few mistakes and it wasn't a big hit, but it was good enough that it was all eaten. Tonight, after some research, I tried it again, since I have more of it (it was on sale for $1.25 at Sprouts and at that price, it was worth trying out). I enjoyed the meal and so did my husband. The girls weren't thrilled, but it all was eaten. Success.

First, I sliced the tofu and used paper towels to dry it as much as possible. Then I diced it small and coated it lightly with corn starch in a small bowl. Then I fried it in about 1 Tablespoon of olive oil  and a shake of sea salt for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. I removed it from the frying pan and stir-fried frozen broccoli, green beans and diced red onion. I served it with some "Bob's Red Mill" couscous seasoned with olive oil, Italian seasonings and chicken bullion. The tofu had a nice crisp texture and the other flavors provided a nice balance.

I'll be trying different ideas with tofu and I'll share what I enjoy!