Tofu has a terrible rap. At least among my teenagers, that is. And my husband. And my friends. 

Wait. Tofu has a terrible rap? Not if you crisp it up and serve it as an unexpected protein boost on an appetizer tray it doesn't! I love it for the flavor palette it offers - think of it like a painter's mixing tray, where you can create deliciousness with a dab of this and a dab of that. 

Simple. Easy. Delicious. And unexpected. Bring it on!!!

CRISPY TOFU

• 1 lb firm or extra firm tofu
• cornstarch
• seasonings
• oil

1. Drain and slice the tofu into 3 slices, kind of horizontally. Press the tofu in between paper towels or clean dish towels, squeezing water out. You can put something heavy on top if you'd like this to be less hands-on.
2. Cut the pressed tofu into sticks.
3. Toss cornstarch (I use about 3 tablespoons for the pound of tofu, but there's a fair amount not used up.) with seasonings to taste. Salt and pepper is a good place to start, especially if you're going to dip the tofu into some dip or other.
4. Heat oil to shimmer, then add the sticks so they're not crowded in the pan. Fry until brown and crispy, then turn and cook the other side.
5. Drain, sprinkle with more salt, and serve. YUM!!!