WARM TOFU WITH SPICY GARLIC SAUCE (for eight as part of a Korean meal)

one 14 to 18 ounce package soft tofu (not silken)

1 teaspoon chopped garlic

¼ cup chopped scallion

2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted and crushed with the side of a heavy knife

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon Asian sesame oil

1 teaspoon coarse Korean hot red pepper flakes

½ teaspoon sugar

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1.  Carefully rinse tofu, then cover with cold water in a medium saucepan.  Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then keep warm, covered, over very low heat.

2.  Meanwhile, mince and mash garlic to a paste with a pinch of salt.  Stir together with remaining ingredients (except tofu).

3.  Just before serving, carefully lift tofu from saucepan with a large spatula and drain on paper towels.  Gently pat dry, then transfer to a small plate. Spoon some sauce over tofu and serve warm.  Serve remaining sauce on side.

NOTE:  Sauce can be made 1 day ahead and chilled.  Bring to room temperature before using.  Tofu can be kept warm up to 4 hours.

from Lillian Chou, Gourmet Magazine, March, 2009