Dining Pick of the Week: Mashisoyo Tofu House

PICK OF THE WEEK:

MASHISOYO TOFU HOUSE

5035 S. Fort Apache Road at West Tropicana Avenue, 684-7263

You already know that tofu is high in protein and calcium, low in saturated fat and salt, and completely cholesterol-free. Made from soybeans, it is often referred to as the perfect source of vegetable protein. Recent researches have listed tofu as a food source that preserves bone mass, is rich in iron, can reduce the risk of cancer and protect and strengthen the heart. Mashisoyo is tofu heaven, as you can find this vegetable in just about every menu item. Featured hot entrees are served in an earthenware pot and include beef tofu that is a spicy stew. Other spicy tofu stews are curry, ham and sausage, oyster, vegetable, seafood, pork kimchi and the combination containing soft tofu, clam, shrimp, oyster, beef and sometimes egg. Several specials are seafood and green onion pancake, tofu salad, red bean sherbet and tonkatsu, a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet served with shredded cabbage. The barbecue menu features spicy pork, beef and regular or spicy chicken. Many of the barbecue items can be combined with tofu. Entrees begin at $8.75, and combo plates start at $14.95. Mashisoyo Tofu House is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

- Jack Bulavsky