Simmered Vegetables and Tofu

This is a really nice, warm dish that's sweet but also rich in flavor.  It also takes about ten minutes to cook, so it's a good deal for how much time you'll spend on it.  Serves 4.

• 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
  
• 2 tbspn soy sauce
  
• 2 tspn sesame oil
  
• 1/2 cup shaoxing rice wine
  
• 1/2 cup mirin
  
• 2 star anise (whole)
  
• 1 tbpsn fresh giner, finely sliced
  
• 12 fresh shiitake mushrooms (cut down if large)
  
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
  
• 1  yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
  
• 10.5 oz tofu
  
• 2 spring onions, finely slice on a bias (reserve as garnish)
  
• white rice

Add all ingredients and 1/2 cup water to a large saucepan.  Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 10 minutes.

Cube the tofu into 1/2 inch cubes and add divide amongst the serving bowls.  Add the broth and vegetables to each dish.  Garnish with spring onions.

From: Marie Claire Seasonal Kitchen by Michele Cranston