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Round 1, Week 3 challenge: 365 Everyday Value firm tofu, mango chutney, broccoli and crispy rice cereal

Joe Moninski

Tofu? I never cooked tofu before, nor used chutney of any sort, so this was an adventure that was fun!

I get some of my inspiration from doing background research on ingredients, usually not starting with recipes, but rather with the origins and other “trivia” about the food. And I'd have to say after working with tofu, I will certainly be adding it to my diet.

I did a few experiments over the weekend, and I was surprised with how well the tofu came out, on the first try. However, I decided that I was trying to be too complex with the dish, and the stir-fry and sauce just didn't turn out very good the first few attempts.

So in keeping with the spirit of the challenge, I decided to simplify, felt some success and finally was confident enough to have guests over on Monday night for this special dinner. I do have to thank my wife, Laura, for sampling, and critiquing the various “attempts” over the past several days.

Louann Zundel

As soon as I saw tofu as the secret ingredient I thought “Oh no! I've never worked with nor eaten it before.” But, for some reason, Baja tacos came to mind.

The mango chutney led me to the Meyer lemons, because I thought that the slight orange flavor would pair well with the spices in the chutney. The crispy rice cereal was just fun and worked with the broccoli and couscous.

Asian-inspired Slaw and Crispy Rice Bowls

Broccoli Couscous

Baja Style Tofu Tacos with Broccoli Couscous

Crispy Fried Tofu with Stir-Fried Vegetables and Brown Rice

Joe Moninski of Arlington Heights
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