Lunch: Sichuan Tofu Gan and Warm Celery Salad

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Nuts

Health benefits of Sichuan Tofu Gan and Warm Celery Salad

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Nuts are a natural source of Inositol, a derivative of Vitamin B (which is often prescribed in the form of supplements for women with PCOS). Inositol can effectively control the symptoms of PCOS by reducing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons chili oil, plus more for garnish
1 tablespoon chili bean paste
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
1 large clove garlic, coarsely chopped
3 inner celery stalks, with leaves, sliced diagonally 1/4-inch thick
One 8-ounce package firm tofu gan (dried firm beancurd), sliced into 1/8-inch-thick slices
1 teaspoon light soy sauce
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 cup roasted salted peanuts

Instructions

Whisk together the chili oil, chili bean paste and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
Heat a wok over high heat until smoking and pour in the vegetable oil. Add the peppercorns and garlic and toss briefly, and then add the celery and stir-fry until softened, 1 minute. Stir in the tofu and carefully toss until heated through, about 1 minute. Pour in the chili oil sauce and toss well until warm throughout.
Stir in the soy sauce and season with sea salt, black pepper and the lemon juice, adding more to taste.
Transfer to a platter and sprinkle the cilantro and peanuts over the top. Drizzle more chili oil over the salad and serve immediately.