Name: Buddha's Delight: Tofu & Vegetable Stir-Fry
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 2 cups water; 2 fermented bean curd blocks; 3 tablespoons vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon mushroom seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon cornstarch; 0.5 teaspoon sesame oil; 0.5 teaspoon white sugar; Ground black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 (1/2 inch) pieces fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced; 4 ounces fried tofu, cut into 4 pieces; 2 ounces lotus root, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 ounces ginkgo nuts; 1 ounce dried lily flowers, soaked in hot water; 8 dried red dates; 5 fresh shiitake mushrooms, diced; 1 carrot, sliced; 7 ounces napa cabbage, cut into small pieces; 2 ounces snow peas; 2 ounces fresh black fungus; 1 (2 ounce) package cellophane noodles; 1 tablespoon goji berries, soaked in water; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 ounce dried black moss (nostoc), rehydrated

Embark on a culinary journey with Buddha's Delight, a symphony of textures and tastes that celebrates the art of vegan cuisine. This harmonious stir-fry, also known as Lo Han Jai, is a testament to mindful eating, offering a delightful blend of earthy mushrooms, crisp vegetables, and delicate flavors. A true masterpiece to be savored with a bowl of steaming rice.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

5 mins

Craft the Umami Broth: In a mixing bowl, combine the water, fermented tofu blocks, vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, mushroom seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, cornstarch, sesame oil, white sugar, and a generous grind of black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the fermented tofu is fully dissolved, creating a luscious and flavorful base. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

02

Step

5 mins

Awaken the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Introduce the thinly sliced ginger and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, until fragrant and lightly golden, infusing the oil with its distinctive warmth. (Cook time: 30 seconds)

03

Step

3 mins

Layer the Foundation: Add the fried tofu, lotus root, ginkgo nuts, rehydrated lily flowers, dried red dates, diced shiitake mushrooms, and carrot slices to the skillet. Stir-fry until the vegetables begin to soften and the tofu develops a beautiful golden-brown hue, approximately 5 minutes. (Cook time: 5 minutes)

04

Step

2 mins

Embrace the Verdant Bounty: Incorporate the napa cabbage, snow peas, fresh black fungus, drained cellophane noodles, and soaked goji berries into the skillet. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Continue to stir-fry for another 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender-crisp and the noodles to absorb the flavorful oil. (Cook time: 3 minutes)

05

Step

Unleash the Depth: Gently fold in the rehydrated black moss (nostoc). Pour the prepared fermented tofu mixture over the medley of ingredients, ensuring even coverage. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. (Cook time: 2 minutes)

06

Step

Present the Masterpiece: Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully transfer the Buddha's Delight to a decorative serving dish. Garnish with extra goji berries or sesame seeds, if desired, for an added touch of visual appeal. Serve immediately with steamed rice and savor the exquisite harmony of flavors.

For a richer, more complex flavor profile, consider adding a splash of Shaoxing rice wine to the stir-fry during the final stages of cooking.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your desired level of spiciness.
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability and personal preference. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or bok choy would all be excellent additions.
Ensure the dried lily flowers and black moss are thoroughly rehydrated before adding them to the stir-fry. This will ensure optimal texture and prevent any unpleasant dryness.
To prevent the cellophane noodles from becoming sticky, avoid overcooking them. They should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite.