Tofu Stir Fry

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1. 1Step 1: Drain the tofu and wrap it in a thin dish towel. Place a heavy cookbook or skillet on top to press it. Press for 10-15 minutes, changing the towel halfway through. Meanwhile, stir together the Sauce ingredients in a bowl or measuring cup, and prep your vegetables and aromatics.
2. 2Step 2: Cut the tofu into four equal squares. Flip each square on its side and slice into squares about 1/3 inch (1 cm) wide. Transfer to a large bowl or shallow baking pan.
3. 3Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the salt, white pepper, garlic powder, five spice powder (if using), and cornstarch. Sprinkle half over the tofu, flip the tofu over, and sprinkle with the rest, tossing gently to coat with your hands.
4. 4Step 4: Line a cutting board or large plate with paper towels. Open some windows, as it will get smoky if using a wok. Heat a flat-bottomed wok over medium-high heat until you see light wisps of smoke. Only then add 3 tablespoons of the oil (this prevents sticking). Swirl the pan to get oil up the sides. Carefully add the tofu. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, shaking the pan every minute for even cooking, until golden brown on the bottom. Flip and toss the tofu and repeat for 2 to 4 minutes, until golden brown but not charred on the bottom (reduce the heat if it starts to char). Transfer the tofu to the paper towel-lined surface to absorb excess oil. Wipe out the pan. Note: Depending on your wok size and tofu weight, it may not all fit; for best results, fry in 2 batches.
5. 5Step 5: Return the wok to the stove. Heat over high until smoking, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and ginger, and stir fry for 20 to 30 seconds, tossing frequently so they don't stick. Add the prepped vegetables, and stir fry for 1 to 1.5 minutes (add sturdy vegetables like carrots or broccoli for 1-2 minutes, then add softer vegetables like bell peppers for 1 to 1.5 minutes). Add the Sauce and stir fry for 2.5 minutes, then add any tender vegetables (e.g., bok choy leaves) and stir fry for 30 seconds until wilted.
6. 6Step 6: Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until well-dissolved. Add to the pan and stir until thickened and glossy (it won't take long). Off the heat, add the tofu, cilantro, sesame seeds, and sesame oil. Toss well to coat the tofu. Serve over rice.