Fiery Sichuan Pepper Tofu with Garlic Chive Oil

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, lightly crushed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup garlic chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Method

1. 01
   Press the tofu block to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. 02
   Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. 03
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. 04
   In the same skillet, add Sichuan peppercorns and toast until fragrant. Add minced garlic and sliced bell peppers, sautéing until the peppers are tender.
5. 05
   Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Return the tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. 06
   For the garlic chive oil, heat vegetable oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add chopped garlic chives and allow to infuse for about 5 minutes. Stir in sesame oil and remove from heat.
7. 07
   Drizzle the garlic chive oil over the tofu and serve hot.