Laquered Tofu with Green Beans

• FAST
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 1 pound firm tofu, drained
2. 1 red bell pepper
3. 1/4 cup stock
4. 3 tablespoons soy sauce
5. 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
6. 3 garlic cloves, minced
7. 1 tablespoon mushroom soy sauce
8. 4 teaspoons roasted peanut oil
9. 1/4 pound green beans, cut into 2-inch lengths
10. 5 scallions, sliced 1/2 inch thick
11. 1/2 teaspoon toasted Szechwan peppercorns
12. Salt
13. 1/4 cup roasted cashews

1. Cut the tofu and red pepper into 1 1/2-inch triangles. In a bowl, mix the stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic and mushroom soy. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet. Add the tofu and cook, turning once, until golden; transfer to a plate. Add the remaining teaspoon of oil to the pan; add the beans and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add the red pepper and scallions and stir-fry until just tender. Add the tofu and Szechwan peppercorns; season with salt. Pour in the sauce and stir gently until the vegetables and tofu are evenly coated. Transfer to a platter and sprinkle with the cashews.