Ginisang Togue with Tokwa (Sauteed Mung Bean Sprout with Tofu)

Growing up in the Philippines is synonymous with a myriad of flavors marinating your childhood. Among these unforgettable tastes is the humble yet heartwarming classic, Ginisang Togue, or Sauteed Mung Bean Sprouts and Tofu. This dish, always gracing our table, served as a gentle reminder that healthy food need not be dull, especially in contrast to the commercially prepared canned food and processed snacks.

Ginisang Togue offers various health benefits. Free from cholesterol, it serves as an excellent dietary choice for those battling with Hypertension. The star ingredient, mung beans, is a fiber powerhouse and packed with enzymes promoting better digestion. The result? A guilt-free pleasure of blending flavor and nutrition harmoniously.

The Essential Ingredients: Easy to Find, Easier to Love

Indulge in this dish with the following ingredients:

• Mung Bean Sprout: 1 Pack
• Tofu (Tokwa): 4 pcs
• Carrot: 1 medium-sized, julienned or cut into strips
• Tomatoes: 2 pieces, sliced into squares with seeds removed
• Onion: 1 medium-sized, chopped or cubed
• Garlic: 3 heads, crushed
• Shrimps or Hibe (tiny shrimps): ¼ kg
• Bell Pepper: 1 red and 1 green, cut and cubed differently for a variation
• Fish sauce (Patis): 2 Tbsp.
• A pinch of Salt & Pepper, to taste

Sautée Togue in Filipino Style

With ingredients at hand, let's dive into the process:

Step 1: First, fry tofu until golden brown. Let it cool, then cut into cubes or small squares.

Step 2: Sauté the crushed garlic and onion until the onion gains a pale color. Follow by adding the sliced tomatoes.

Step 3: Up next is Hibe. Add them to the mix.

Step 4: Pour a cup or two of water and introduce carrots, letting it simmer until they reach your preferred tenderness.

Step 5: Add the red and green bell peppers. Simmer for another minute.

Step 6: Now add the Mung Bean sprout. Season with salt, fish sauce, and pepper as per taste.

Step 7: Finally, add the tofu back and let it simmer for another two or three minutes.

The unique flavors from hibe replace the need for commercially-made additives, ensuring that you are relishing every spoonful without compromising nutritional value.

Pair this savoury dish with steamed rice, sit back, and delight in every bite. The concoction of different tastes and textures creates a symphony in your mouth – an evocation of familiar yet comforting senses. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a hearty meal while reminiscing about the nostalgic flavor of childhood.

Q & A

Q1: Can we replace tofu with other ingredients in this recipe?

A1: Definitely! You can experiment with various substitutes like Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese). However, tofu lends a characteristic flavor to the dish.

Q2: Is there any alternate way to cook mung bean sprouts?

A2: Mung beans are super versatile! They can be used in salads or stir-fry or can be sprouted at home.

Q3: What are the nutritional benefits of mung beans?

A3: Mung beans are packed with essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They help in lowering blood pressure, aiding weight loss, improving heart health, and more.

Rediscover your childhood love for Filipino cuisine by indulging in this flavorful dish, enchanting your palate while nourishing your body. Bon Appétit!