Stir-Fried Mung Bean Sprouts with Tofu and Chives (Pad Tao Kua Tao Ngae)
Together with pork and chives, the combination of soft and fried tofu plays a fun game of textures in the mouth. Don’t worry about cutting the tofu to exact measurements; as long as the pieces are bite-sized and manageable in the wok, you’re good to go! Vegetarians can omit the pork for a tasty and nutritious protein-rich dish. Serve with SHRIMP AND PINEAPPLE RED CURRY.
Time: 15 minutes
Makes: 4 to 6 servings as part of a multicourse family-style meal
Ingredients
- 4 ounces pork loin
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (1 tablespoon)
- 6 ounces (about ½ package) soft tofu (not silken), cut into 1- by 1½-inch pieces
- 6 ounces (about ½ package) 1- by 1½-inch fried tofu pieces (or see recipe on page 122 to fry your own tofu)
- 4 cups fresh mung bean sprouts, tails snapped off
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ¼ cup Chinese chives cut into 2-inch lengths
- Ground white pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Pork:
- Handle the pork partially frozen for easier cutting. Cut the pork along the grain into 1½-inch-thick strips. Then, slice the meat diagonally across the grain into ⅛-inch-thick slices.
2 Stir-Fry:
- Preheat a large wok or skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute. Swirl in the oil and heat until it becomes runny and starts to shimmer.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant, about 15 to 30 seconds.
- Add the pork slices and stir-fry until the meat just loses its pink color, about 2 minutes.
- Add both types of tofu and then the mung bean sprouts. Sprinkle with soy sauce and sugar (if using) and toss gently for 1 minute, being careful not to break up the soft tofu.
- Add the Chinese chives and ground white pepper, stirring swiftly but gently around the wok until all ingredients are heated through, about 1 minute.
3 Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with freshly steamed rice.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to taste with more soy sauce or fish sauce if desired.
- Ensure all ingredients are heated through but not overcooked to maintain their textures.
- Enjoy this dish as part of a complete meal with other complementary dishes.