To start, prep the broth.
Heat the oil in a pot over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the onion, ginger and smashed garlic. Cook, stirring often, until tender and fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes.
Stir in the curry paste and continue to cook, stirring continuously, until the paste darkens slightly, 1 to 2 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, coconut milk and soy sauces, and bring to a simmer. Once at a simmer, reduce the heat to medium low, partially cover, and continue to simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve (make sure you don’t discard the broth!). Discard the veggies and return the strained broth to the pot over medium heat.
Add the MSG, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt and pepper, if necessary
While the broth is simmering, prepare the tofu and optional cucumber salad.
For the tofu, heat the oil in a large wok or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu and season with the low-sodium soy sauce and dark soy sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp around the edges, 12 to 15 minutes.
Add the onion, garlic and ginger and continue to cook, stirring often, until fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary.
If making the cucumber salad, quickly toss all the ingredients together until the cucumber are thoroughly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary
To serve, add rice to a bowl, top with the crispy ginger tofu, and ladle in some broth. Garnish with cucumber salad and preferred toppings and enjoy!