SHANGHAI TOFU AND PEANUT SALAD

Steps:

• Cut tofu crosswise into 1-inch thick slices.
• Let drain in a colander for 15 minutes, then place between paper towels and gently press out excess water.
• Place tofu on a rack in a shallow rimmed baking pan and brush all surfaces with oil.
• Bake in a 350° oven for 20 minutes.
• Let cool, then cut into 1/4 by 1/4 by 1 inch strips.
• Prepare Sesame Dressing and add tofu, stirring gently to coat.
• Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
• Meanwhile, fill a 24-quart pan half-full with water.
• Bring to a boil over high heat.
• Add bean sprouts and cook for 10 seconds; then drain, rinse under cold water, and drain again.
• Cover and refrigerate.
• Peel cucumber, if desired, and cut in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out and discard seeds, if large, and slice thinly; cover and refrigerate.
• Just before serving, combine tofu and dressing, bean sprouts, cucumber, 2/3 C.
• of the carrots, thinly sliced onions, and nuts in a large salad bowl; toss gently.
• Garnish with remaining carrots, coriander, and diagonally sliced onions.
• Sesame Dressing: Combine dressing ingredients and mix well.