Fried Tofu Sticks

Directions

1. 1
   Toast the bread crumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes.
2. 2
   Transfer to a bowl and let cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes.
3. 3
   Mix in the oregano, thyme, salt and pepper.
4. 4
   Cut the block of tofu horizontally in half.
5. 5
   Then cut it in half the long way.
6. 6
   Make 5 cuts perpendicular to the long cut, creating 24 pieces.
7. 7
   Cover a sheet pan with paper towels.
8. 8
   Place the tofu in one layer on the towels.
9. 9
   Blot the tofu, pressing it gently with additional towels to remove excess moisture.
10. 10
    Heat the oil in a deep skillet to 375 degrees F. Cover a second baking sheet with more paper towels.
11. 11
    Place the beaten eggs in a wide, shallow dish.
12. 12
    Dip the tofu in the egg.
13. 13
    Dredge the pieces in the bread crumb mixture until completely coated.
14. 14
    Slip the breaded tofu into the hot oil, 3 or 4 pieces at a time.
15. 15
    Fry until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.
16. 16
    Remove from pan using a slotted spoon.
17. 17
    Drain on paper towels.
18. 18
    Serve immediately, accompanied by the Honey Mustard for dipping.
19. 19
    Or, let the sticks cool and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
20. 20
    Cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
21. 21
    Before serving, recrisp by baking in a 350 degree F oven for about 12 minutes.
22. 22
    Puree the tofu in a food processor.
23. 23
    Add the mustard, honey, sugar, lemon juice, vinegar, dry mustard, and salt.
24. 24
    Process until well blended.
25. 25
    The finished dipping sauce will have the texture of runny mayonnaise.
26. 26
    Turn the sauce into a container, cover, and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
27. 27
    This gives the ingredients time to meld and their flavors to develop.
28. 28
    Chilling thickens the sauce to a spreadable texture.
29. 29
    Stirring brings it back to the texture of a dip or a thick sauce.
30. 30
    (This condiment will keep for up to 1 week, tightly covered and refrigerated.)
31. 31
    Makes 1 1/2 cups