Pressed Seasoned Bean Curd

When water is extracted from fresh bean curd cakes by pressing them with a weight, the bean curd becomes firm and compact. Simmered in water with soy sauce, star anise, and sugar, the pressed bean curd acquires a smooth, resilient texture that is quite unusual. Cut into small pieces, it can be stir-fried with meat or vegetables; when cut into larger pieces it can be simmered. In China, pressed seasoned bean curd is a popular ingredient. Buy it at Asian speciality markets, or substitute fresh firm bean curd.