This one-pan meal shows just how joyful tofu can be

This 30-minute dinner gets its crunch from pan-seared tofu, blistered snap peas and toasted cashews, and its flavor from an umami-rich sauce. David Malosh for The New York Times

A ginger and coconut milk reduction can coat pretty much anything that browns nicely on its own. Here, it’s pieces of pan-seared tofu — but small morsels of chicken and pork will work just as well. The soy and the teaspoons of molasses give the sauce a little caramelization, and a little shine and gloss.

For a fresh side, add some blistered snap peas, tossed with sliced scallions, a little mint and a splash of rice vinegar. Snow peas, green beans, broccoli or asparagus? If it’s fresh and green, it’ll work just fine.