At the table
Ask whether it is served plain or seasoned. Hold a slice with chopsticks, let the hot center cool and bite into it; ask about chili before seasoning.
Contains soy. Added sauces, braising ingredients and cooking oil can differ; confirm the finished dish if you have dietary restrictions.
Plain fried tofu is the version shown. Salt or chili powder may be added; boiled, stir-fried and braised dishes use different additions.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Plain fried tofu is the version shown. Salt or chili powder may be added; boiled, stir-fried and braised dishes use different additions.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Mild soybean flavor with a fried aroma; chili is a separate seasoning choice.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- A thin golden exterior around a tender but firm curd.
- How it’s made
- Soybeans are soaked, ground and filtered. The heated soy milk is set with fermented vegetable liquid, pressed, sliced and fried in soybean oil.
Plain fried tofu is the version shown. Salt or chili powder may be added; boiled, stir-fried and braised dishes use different additions.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Its origins are linked to Hunan.
About this regional connection
Hunan: Shiyang, Xintian County, Yongzhou.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有新田醋水豆腐吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
The name comes from making the curd
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
In Shiyang, Xintian, vegetable-fermented liquid sets the soy milk before pressing and frying. The resulting golden tofu can be eaten simply or used in other local dishes.