1 lb Firm bean curd (tofu)

-FILLING –
1 tb Peanut oil
3 tb Minced fresh cilantro
2 tb Finely chopped garlic
2 tb Finely chopped scallions
1 1/2 tb Minced peeled fresh ginger
2 ts Red chile flakes or powder
1 tb Dark soy sauce
1 ts Sugar
1/2 ts Salt
1/2 ts Sesame oil
2 c Peanut oil; for frying

SAUCE
1 tb Peanut oil
1 tb Finely chopped garlic
1 tb Minced peeled fresh ginger
1 tb Dark soy sauce
1 tb Rice wine
2 ts Light soy sauce
1 ts Sugar
1 c Chicken stock
1 ts Cornstarch; mixed with
1 ts Water
2 ts Sesame oil

DRAIN THE BEAN CURD AND CUT IT into 2-inch squares. Set to drain further on
paper towels. Heat a wok or large saute pan until is is hot. Add the oil
and all the filling ingredients and stir-fry for 1 minute. Put the cooked
ingredients in a bowl and allow them to cool thoroughly. Heat a wok or
large saute pan until it is hot. Add the 2 cups oil and, when it is hot,
deep-fry the bean curd on both sides until it is golden brown. Remove the
bean curd squares from the wok, drain them well on paper towels, and allow
them to cool thoroughly. Drain and discard the oil. Take each of the bean
curd squares and, with a knife, split it slightly open on one side so a
pocket is formed. Place a spoonful of cooked filling in each of the
pockets. Continue to fill the squares until you have used all the bean
curd. Wipe the wok clean, reheat, and add 1 tablespoon oil. Then add the
garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Then add the rest of the
ingredients except the cornstarch mixture and sesame oil. Bring the mixture
to a boil, return the fried bean curd pieces and cook over medium heat for
3 minutes. Now add the cornstarch mixture, stir gently to combine, and then
add the sesame oil. Give the mixture a final turn and serve at once. Serves
4 as part of Chinese meal, or 2 as a single dish.