🇨🇳 Chinese Cuisine · Street Food

Stinky Tofu

Prep

5 mins

Cook

10 mins

Serves

2

Difficulty

Easy

Fermented tofu deep-fried until the outside crisps while the pungent interior turns custard-soft, served with chili sauce.

Ingredients

  • 500g firm tofu
  • 2 cups glutinous rice
  • a handful of sliced scallion whites
  • a pinch of doubanjiang (chili bean paste)
  • 3 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • a handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • black vinegar, for serving
  • 2 cups water
  • a pinch of five-spice powder

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the wonton wrappers base and set it aside to rest while you get the filling ready.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the whole duck, napa cabbage, minced garlic, and star anise, mixing well so everything is evenly seasoned.

  3. 3

    Heat neutral vegetable oil in a skillet, wok, or on a griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  4. 4

    Cook the wonton wrappers until lightly golden on each side, then transfer to a warm plate.

  5. 5

    Fry, grill, or steam the whole duck mixture until cooked through and lightly charred at the edges, about 10 mins.

  6. 6

    Assemble by layering the wonton wrappers with the filling, a spoonful of toasted sesame oil, and a scattering of scallion greens.

Tips

Prep all your fillings and toppings before you start cooking, since this dish comes together quickly once the heat is on.

Keep the neutral vegetable oil hot but not smoking — a thermometer helps you nail the perfect frying or grilling temperature.

Serve immediately for the best contrast between a crisp exterior and a warm, tender filling.