0/ Vegan Mapo Tofu

Slice thinly: 

• 5-6 shiitake mushrooms

Cube (1in) a brick of soft (not silken) tofu. Cover with boiling salted water. Let sit for 10-15 minutes, then drain. 

Mix sauce together in a small bowl:

• 1 tsp. grated ginger
• 1 tsp. minced garlic
• 1-2 tsp. Gochugang (to taste)
• 2-4 tbl. soy sauce (to taste)
• 1 tsp. toasted sesame oil
• ¼ tsp. Chinese five-spice powder
• lots of fresh pepper
• ½ c. water (or broth)

Saute shiitakes in 3-4 tbl. avocado oil in a lidded pan. When tender, add sauce ingredients and gentle place tofu on top. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and swirl in and gently shake until incorporated: 

• 2 tsp. cornstarch mixed with 3 tbl. cold water

Add more broth or water if too thickened, and sprinkle 2-3 chopped green onions on top to serve.