Steamed Tofu with Fish Paste

Tofu ...... a solid form of beancurd is one of the healthiest foods that can be included in our diet.  Just as cheese is derived from milk, tofu is derived from soybean milk and it was first made in China about 2,500 years ago.

Tofu is low in calories, high in protein and B vitamins, contains iron and no saturated fat.  This makes it an excellent substitute for meat in many vegetarian recipes.  The calcium in tofu contributes to the prevention of osteoporosis.  An additional benefit of tofu is that it's extremely easy to digest, especially for the elderly and young children because the soybean's fibre is removed during the manufacturing process.  It also lowers the 'bad' LDL cholesterol level, rich in isoflavones, which will reduce the risk of  breast and prostate cancer.

They come in different textures, silkier or softer ones more suitable for soups while the hard or firm variety can be stir-fried, cubed or grilled.

rather bland on its own, but it has the ability of absorbing the flavours of other ingredients, in this case, the fish paste and sauces .......... delicious with rice

Recipe for Steamed Tofu with Fish Paste

Ingredients

1 block soft tofu, about 340 gm

75 gm fish paste

2  Tsp cornflour

1/2  Tsp salt

1/4  Tsp sugar

1  Tsp oyster sauce

Dash of pepper

Garnishing

Spring onions  - chopped

A sprinkling of shallot crisps

Cut chilly

A dash of pepper

Preparation

Mash the tofu, add in the fish paste, mix well

Add in the cornflour, salt, sugar, oyster sauce and pepper

mix thoroughly

Steam under rapidly boiling water

for about 5 to 6 minutes

Garnish with spring onions, shallot crisps, chilly and pepper

Drizzle in some light soya sauce

Serve hot with rice