Funky Beans - 8 oz jar - Free Shipping

Silky tofu, savory shiitake and a spoonful of Funky Beans. It's done before the rice is. Serves 2.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) soft or medium tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 4 shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp Funky Beans (Medium)
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• ¾ cup water or vegetable stock
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
• 2 scallions, sliced
• Ground Sichuan pepper and steamed rice, to serve

Method

1. Simmer the tofu in lightly salted water for 2 minutes, then drain. This firms it up so it holds together.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shiitake for about 3 minutes until browned, then add the garlic for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in the Funky Beans and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the soy sauce and water and bring to a simmer. Slide in the tofu and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, nudging it rather than stirring.
5. Stir in the cornstarch mix and cook until the sauce turns glossy.
6. Top with scallions and a pinch of ground Sichuan pepper. Serve with rice.

Make it your way: want more fire? Use Spicy. New to heat? Start with 1 tbsp of Mild.

Cold noodles, crunchy greens and a funky sesame dressing. Perfect for lunch boxes and hot days. Serves 2.

Ingredients

• 7 oz (200 g) thin wheat or egg noodles
• 2 cups shredded lettuce or kale
• 2 scallions, sliced
• 2 tbsp Funky Beans (Mild)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar or honey

Method

1. Cook the noodles following the packet, then rinse under cold water and drain well.
2. Whisk the Funky Beans, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil and sugar into a dressing.
3. Toss the noodles and greens with the dressing until everything is coated.
4. Top with scallions. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Make it a meal: add shredded chicken, edamame or a soft-boiled egg.

Two spoonfuls of Funky Beans make a marinade that does all the work. Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 1½ lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp Funky Beans (Spicy), plus extra to serve
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Method

1. Mix the Funky Beans, soy sauce, honey, oil and lime juice in a bowl.
2. Add the chicken and coat it well. Marinate for 20 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
3. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until the inside reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Rest for 5 minutes, then spoon a little extra Funky Beans on top.
5. Serve with rice, noodles or a crisp salad.

Milder crowd? Swap in Medium or Mild. The marinade still brings the funk.