Coconut Curried Tofu and Spinach

Flipping through the pages of  Fitness Magazine I was  delighted to find a vegan recipe. I was also happy to find the recipe quick and easy (crock-pot), with familiar, easy-to find ingredients. Not only that–the ingredients are easy to substitute–say, for instance, bok choy for the spinach or Creminis for Shitakes, etc.

This dish is delicious. I’ve already made it twice in one week! The tofu really offers a rich protein source and the veggies lend great flavor, while the coconut milk and peanut butter give it a creamy sauce with just a little red curry kick!

Coconut Curried Tofu and Spinach

 from Fitness Magazine

 Nonstick cooking spray

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup low-sodium veggie broth

¼ cup natural peanut butter

1 teaspoon red curry paste

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy or tamari sauce

2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 14-ounce package firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes

6 ounces shitake mushrooms, sliced (or white, cremini, etc.)

1 cup light coconut milk

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

6 cups baby spinach, torn into bite-sized pieces

4 lime wedges, optional

4 servings hot cooked brown rice

1. Coat the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray. Combine cornstarch and broth in cooker until cornstarch is dissolved.; stir in peanut butter, curry paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger and garlic. Add peppers and mushrooms and toss gently. Cook on low 4 hours.

2. Stir in coconut milk, lime juice and spinach, turn slow cooker to high; cook 15 minutes more.

Serve wth rice and garnish with lime wedges if desired.