Lemongrass Tofu with Mushrooms

Preparation Add enough vegetable oil to heavy medium saucepan to reach depth of 2 inches. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F. Deep-fry tofu squares in 2 batches until golden, about 2 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer tofu to paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add minced lemongrass, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add sliced onion, red bell pepper, and sliced shiitake mushrooms; sauté until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Add fish sauce and sugar; sauté 1 minute. Add fried tofu squares and sauté until heated through, about 1 minute. Transfer to bowl. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and serve. Fish sauce (nuoc mam) is available at Asian markets and in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.

Preparation Add enough vegetable oil to heavy medium saucepan to reach depth of 2 inches. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F. Deep-fry tofu squares in 2 batches until golden, about 2 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer tofu to paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add minced lemongrass, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add sliced onion, red bell pepper, and sliced shiitake mushrooms; sauté until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Add fish sauce and sugar; sauté 1 minute. Add fried tofu squares and sauté until heated through, about 1 minute. Transfer to bowl. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and serve. Fish sauce (nuoc mam) is available at Asian markets and in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.