Rice Salad With Peanuts and Tofu

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Combine the two kinds of two rices in a medium saucepan. Add water and salt to taste and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, until rice is tender and all of the liquid in the pan has been absorbed. Remove from heat. Remove lid, place a clean dishtowel across the pan (not touching the rice) and return lid to the pan. Let sit undisturbed for 15 minutes or longer. Remove lid and towel, transfer to a bowl and allow to cool. Add cilantro, peanuts, peas, scallions or chives and chiles and toss together.

2. Step 2

   While rice is cooking, preheat oven to 375 degreesºF. Line a sheet pan with parchment. Pat tofu dry with paper towels and cut laterally into 4 equal squares, then cut squares into strips.

3. Step 3

   In a large, wide bowl whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, shallot, cumin, cayenne, honey or agave nectar, 2 teaspoons of the lime juice, 3 tablespoons of the grape seed or canola oil, and cilantro to taste. Pat each square of tofu dry with paper towels, then dip into marinade, making sure to coat both sides. Transfer to baking sheet. Do not drain the marinade.

4. Step 4

   Bake tofu for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to color and marinade sets on the surface. Remove from heat.

5. Step 5

   Add remaining lime juice to the marinade and whisk in remaining oil. Add to rice mixture and toss.

6. Step 6

   Line a platter or wide bowl, or individual plates with lettuce leaves and top with rice mixture. Lay tofu strips on top, garnish with avocado slices, black sesame seeds if desired, and cilantro, and serve.