Tofu with Eggplant and Peppers

As we have learned, it is not just meat and seafood flavors that can benefit from enjoyment with a glass of fine wine. This is a vegetarian recipe that is delightful with resveratrol-rich wines. A scrumptious concoction of fresh vegetables and tofu, this traditional Vietnamese dish is excellent with earthy red wines such as our Domaine des Blagueurs Syrah Sirrah. Resveratrol, which occurs naturally in red wine, has powerful anti-glycating properties.

Ingredients:

3 tbsp. peanut oil
1 1/2 lbs. extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 onion, chopped
3 tbsp. soy sauce
3 large tomatoes, peeled and cut into eighths
3 large red peppers, chopped
1 small jalapeño or other hot pepper, seeded and minced
1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 1/2 lbs. mushrooms
2 summer squash, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 bunch of scallions, coarsely chopped (white and green parts)
1 1/2 tbsp. tomato paste
6 fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Preparation:

Place tofu cubes into a steamer and allow to steam for 20 to 30 minutes while chopping vegetables.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a wok or large skillet until very hot. Transfer tofu to pan and sauté until brown on all sides, then remove from pan and set aside.

In same pan, sauté onion for one minute. Add soy sauce and one tablespoon water if necessary. Add tomatoes, red peppers, hot peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, squash, scallions, and tomato paste and reduce heat. Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until vegetables are soft. Add tofu and continue cooking until tofu is heated through.

Serve on platter, garnished with cilantro and rice or noodles. We recommend Forbidden rice, though not exactly traditional, for its exotic nutty flavor and psychedelic color that beautifully compliments the eggplant and peppers.

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