Introduction
Anhui cuisine, known for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, offers a variety of unique dishes that tantalize the taste buds. One standout recipe from this culinary region is Hairy Tofu (also known as “hairy bean curd”), a delicacy recognized for its interesting texture and earthy flavor profile. Hairy tofu is versatile and can be enjoyed both as a snack or as part of a meal. In this article, we will guide you through detailed, stepbystep instructions to prepare this delicious dish at home.
What is Hairy Tofu?
Hairy tofu is a fermented form of tofu that shows a distinctive hairy or fuzzy appearance due to the cultivation of mold, specifically Aspergillus species. This process enhances the tofu’s flavor and gives it a unique texture that many find appealing. Hairy tofu is often crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect candidate for stirfrying, deepfrying, or steaming.
Ingredients
For a basic hairy tofu recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
300g hairy tofu (fresh or storebought)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon chili sauce (to taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
2 spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
Salt and pepper to taste
StepbyStep Instructions
Step 1: Preparation of Hairy Tofu
Rinse the hairy tofu under cold water to remove any excess surface impurities.
Pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps to achieve a crispier texture when frying.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili sauce.
Cut the hairy tofu into bitesized cubes and add them to the marinade.
Gently toss to ensure the tofu is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for about 1520 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or wok, heat about 3 tablespoons of oil over mediumhigh heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the tofu; this will help achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Fry the Tofu
Carefully add the marinated hairy tofu to the hot oil, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
Fry the tofu for about 45 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Serving
Transfer the crispy hairy tofu to a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped spring onions for added flavor and presentation.
Serve hot as an appetizer or as a side dish to complement your main course.
Conclusion
Hairy tofu is a wonderful introduction to the world of Anhui cuisine and offers an exciting culinary adventure for both novice and experienced cooks. With its rich flavors, delightful crunch, and adaptability, it’s no wonder that this dish has gained popularity. Give this popular and easy hairy tofu recipe a try at home, and bring a taste of Anhui’s culinary heritage to your dining table! Enjoy!