Mussels and Tofu in Sweet Smoked Paprika Sauce

Name: Mussels and Tofu in Sweet Smoked Paprika Sauce
Ingredients: 1 cup vegetable oil; Two 4-ounce pieces firm tofu, cut into 1-inch-thick strips; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons minced ginger; 1 medium-sized onion, minced; 24 frozen blanched mussels in half shells, thawed*; 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus more to taste; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons smoked paprika; 3/4 cups water; 2 jalapeños, seeded and sliced into rings; 5 scallions, cut on a bias into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley flakes, for garnish; Steamed rice, for serving