Carrot and ginger are just made for each other. There is the
slightest bit of sweetness backed by a perfect punch of spice.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1-lb. bag frozen chopped
carrots, thawed
1 small onion, roughly chopped
1 2-to-3-inch
piece ginger, peeled and grated
Kosher salt and freshly ground
pepper
1 star anise pod or 1/2 tsp. five-spice powder
2 cups
carrot juice
1 lb. extra-firm tofu
1/2 cup cornstarch
2
tsp. curry powder
Torn fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat 2 tbsp. vegetable oil in a large pot over
medium heat. Add the carrots, onion and ginger and cook until the
vegetables are just soft, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and
pepper.
Add the star anise, carrot juice and 3 cups water, then
cover and boil until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. Mix the cornstarch and
curry powder on a shallow plate and season with salt. Pat the tofu
dry and roll it in the cornstarch mixture.
Heat the remaining 6
tbsp. oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the tofu and fry,
turning, until golden and crisp on all sides, about 5 minutes. Drain
on paper towels and season with salt.
Discard the star anise.
Transfer the soup to a blender and puree in batches, or puree
directly in the pot with an immersion blender. Thin with water, if
needed, and season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top
with the fried tofu then garnish with cilantro if desired.
Your question and comments are welcome
