**Black Pepper Tofu and Green Beans Recipe**
** Servings: 2-3**
**Ingredients:**
For the Tofu:
* 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
* 2 tbsp vegetable oil
* 2 tsp black peppercorns
* 1 tsp salt
* 1 tsp sugar
* 2 tbsp soy sauce
* 2 tbsp rice vinegar
* 2 tbsp water
For the Green Beans:
* 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
* 2 tbsp vegetable oil
* 1 tsp black sesame seeds
* Salt, to taste
* Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
**Cooking Steps:**
**Tofu:**
1. In a blender or food processor, combine black peppercorns, salt, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water. Blend until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the blended peppercorn paste to the skillet and stir to coat the tofu evenly.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tofu is coated in the sauce.
6. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
**Green Beans:**
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a separate skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the black sesame seeds over the green beans and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. If using garlic, mince 1 clove and add it to the skillet during the last minute of cooking.
6. Toss the green beans to combine with the garlic.
**Assembly and Serve:**
1. Combine the cooked tofu and green beans in a serving dish or on a plate.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips for Cooking Techniques:**
* Use a non-stick skillet or wok to prevent the tofu and green beans from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
* Don't overcrowd the skillet or wok when cooking the tofu and green beans. Cook in batches if necessary, to ensure even cooking.
* Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the green beans. Fresh green beans will retain their crunch and flavor better than older or wilted ones.
* Don't overcook the tofu or green beans. Tofu should be golden brown and slightly firm, while green beans should be tender-crisp.
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Black Pepper Tofu:** Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili flakes to the peppercorn paste for an extra kick of heat.
* **Lemon-Herb Green Beans:** Zest 1 lemon and add it to the skillet with the green beans. Toss with fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Garlic-Ginger Tofu:** Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic and 1-inch piece of grated ginger to the peppercorn paste for a savory and aromatic flavor.
* **Korean-Inspired Green Beans:** Add 1-2 teaspoons of Gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the skillet with the green beans and toss with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
**Other Ingredients to Try:**
* **Miso paste:** Add 1-2 teaspoons of miso paste to the peppercorn paste for a savory and umami flavor.
* **Crispy shallots:** Top the dish with crispy shallots for a crunchy texture and sweet onion flavor.
* **Furikake:** Sprinkle Furikake seasoning over the tofu and green beans for a Japanese-inspired flavor.
* **Turmeric:** Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric to the peppercorn paste for a warm and aromatic flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Black Pepper Tofu and Green Beans!
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