-
1
Combine all of the tofu marinade ingredients in a 2-quart bowl.
-
2
Whisk together well.
-
3
Drain the tofu and pat dry with paper towels.
-
4
Cut into 1/2-inch-thick dominoes, blot again with paper towels and add to the bowl with the marinade.
-
5
Gently toss to coat.
-
6
Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to an hour, or for up to a day.
-
7
Mix together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, scallions, sesame seeds and salt to taste in a small bowl or measuring cup.
-
8
Add red pepper paste if desired.
-
9
Set aside.
-
10
While the tofu is marinating, toss the cucumber with salt to taste and place in a colander in the sink for 15 to 30 minutes.
-
11
Rinse and squeeze dry.
-
12
Place in a bowl and toss with 2 teaspoons of the vinegar and sesame oil mixture.
-
13
In a separate bowl, toss the carrots with 1 tablespoon of the vinegar and sesame oil mixture.
-
14
Refrigerate both the cucumbers and carrots while you cook the tofu, spinach and mushrooms.
-
15
Wash the spinach and wilt in a large frying pan over high heat.
-
16
Remove from the heat, press out excess water and toss in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of the vinegar and sesame oil mixture.
-
17
Heat a wok or large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water evaporates immediately on contact and add the canola oil.
-
18
Stir-fry the tofu for 3 to 5 minutes, until lightly browned, and remove to a plate.
-
19
Add the shiitakes to the pan, let sit without stirring for 1 minute, then stir-fry for another minute or two, until tender.
-
20
Remove to a plate.
-
21
Fry the eggs in the hot pan or in a separate nonstick skillet until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
-
22
Season with salt and pepper.
-
23
Heat 4 wide soup bowls.
-
24
Place a mound of hot grains in the middle of each one and surround with the tofu and vegetables, as well as kimchi if desired, each ingredient in its own little pile.
-
25
Place a fried egg and a small spoonful of chili paste on top of the rice and garnish with the toasted nori and sesame seeds.
-
26
Serve at once.
-
27
Diners should break the egg into the rice.
-
28
Pass the chili paste and add more as desired.
