Tofoolery

The beauty of tofu is that it takes on the flavor of whatever it's next to (note to self: do not store the tofu next to the gym shoes). In fact, this little bean curd is high in protein, low in fat (and everything else), unbelievably versatile, and really doesn't deserve my sarcasm. Host Alaine Shrewsbury briefly introduces viewers to the many varieties of this lumpy, creamy, milky-looking stuff, and shares preparation techniques such as storing, draining, pressing, and blending, before demonstrating how to subsidize some really delicious looking dishes by using multipurpose unassuming tofu. Unfortunately, the production qualities are a little substandard (poor lighting creates strange set shadows that aren't just sunny kitchen ambience). Still, you can't have too many great recipes, and tofu is somewhat off the beaten culinary track, video-wise. Dishes prepared (with on-screen recipes) include Tofu Scrambler, Tofu Chili, Creamy Garlic Dressing and a “No” Cheese Cheesecake (which I will try to "tofool" the VL staff with at our next potluck). Recommended, overall. Aud: P. (N. Plympton)