Maple-Lemon Tofu

Directions

1. 1
   Wrap tofu in a clean dish towel and weight it with something heavy, such as a large can; leave it to drain for 30 minutes.
2. 2
   Slice tofu crosswise into 12 skinny slices, then cut those in half so you end up with 24 skinny half slices.
3. 3
   Mix maple syrup, soy sauce, and lemon juice together in a bowl.
4. 4
   Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
5. 5
   Arrange tofu in a single layer in skillet and cook, undisturbed, until golden and crisp on bottom, 5 to 7 minutes.
6. 6
   (It won't get very dark, but it will look nice and appetizing.)
7. 7
   Turn all pieces over and cook another 3 to 4 minutes.
8. 8
   Reduce heat to low, add garlic and cook, moving garlic around with a spatula in spaces between tofu, 1 minute.
9. 9
   Increase heat to medium-low.
10. 10
    Add maple syrup, soy sauce, and lemon juice, shaking to distribute sauce.
11. 11
    Cook a minute or so, then turn and cook another minute or so, until sauce is reduced to a syrupy glaze and tofu looks nicely coated.
12. 12
    Transfer tofu to plates and scatter with chives or scallions.