Tofu

Beefy shiitake mushrooms stand in for the standard ground pork in this version of ma po tofu. What to drink: The bit of heat here calls for a spicy white wine with ripe fruit and crisp acidity, such as a Riesling from Alsace or Germany's Rheingau.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Contrary to what their name suggests, the color of "red" lentils is actually closer to orange. You can also use brown lentils, but the results will be different. Red lentils fall apart as they cook, creating a creamier base, whereas brown ones hold their shape (and take a little longer to cook).

Steamed jasmine rice is all that's needed to turn this into a meal.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Sichuan peppercorns are officially banned from import because they come from a plant that is susceptible to citrus canker. Although there's no substitute for their woodsy citrus flavor, the recipe is delicious without them. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

This vegetarian bowl is as colorful as it is hearty: brown rice and quinoa, roasted tofu and broccolini, avocado, cabbage slaw, and a turmeric-spiked dressing.

A homemade black bean sauce is better than anything you can find in the grocery store. Plus, the 15-minute dinner you can make with it.

This custardy and comforting tofu comes together in minutes, all thanks to your microwave. Serve with rice or bread for an easy meal.

Packed with shrimp, bean sprouts, and tofu puffs, this Malaysian-style laksa noodle soup is the revivifying post-holiday balm you’ll crave.

Aided by jarred bouillon paste and some spices, the flavor of this baked tofu is intriguingly complex, and good enough to eat on its own.

With custardy tofu, a fragrant scallion sauce, and smoky bonito flakes, this restaurant-quality dish is an impressive appetizer or main for dinner at home.

This gentle take on Korean soondubu jjigae will soothe adults and little ones alike.

We paired these easy tofu meatballs with a simple, summery tomato sauce that cooks as they bake, but you can flavor them any way you like.

With a peanut butter sauce and crunchy vegetables, this easy-to-love noodle salad is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.