Spicy Cold Tofu, also known as Liangban Dofu, is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful sauce and silky tofu, it’s a crowd-pleaser that is both easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of spicy bean paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a bold and savory taste that will leave you wanting more.
- Quick prep time: This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a great option for a quick and tasty meal.
- Perfect for meal prep: Spicy Cold Tofu can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep or packed lunches.
Ingredient Notes:
- Soy sauce: Adds a salty umami flavor to the dish.
- Spicy bean paste: Provides heat and depth of flavor.
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness to the sauce.
- Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the dish.
- Scallion: Adds a fresh and oniony flavor.
- Silken tofu or soft tofu: Provides a creamy and delicate texture.
- Century eggs (optional): Adds a unique and rich flavor to the dish.
- Cilantro and/or Thai basil (optional): Adds a fresh and herbaceous aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, spicy bean paste, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped scallion.
- Cut the tofu into cubes and gently mix with the sauce.
- Top with century eggs, cilantro, and/or Thai basil.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add more spicy bean paste.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with steamed rice or noodles.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the century eggs.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality silken tofu for a creamy and smooth texture.
- Let the tofu marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and aroma.
Serving Suggestions:
Spicy Cold Tofu pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side of pickled cucumbers. For drinks, try serving with a cold glass of green tea or a light lager beer.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm the tofu in the microwave or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use firm tofu instead of silken tofu? Yes, but the texture will be firmer.
- What can I substitute for century eggs? Try using boiled eggs or pickled vegetables for a similar flavor profile.
- How long will Spicy Cold Tofu last in the fridge? It is best enjoyed within 2 days of making.
Conclusion:
Spicy Cold Tofu is a versatile and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. Give this recipe a try and let us know how you like it! Share your feedback and any creative twists you added to make it your own. Enjoy!
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Spicy Cold Tofu (Liangban Dofu)
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spicy Cold Tofu, also known as Liangban Dofu, is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for hot days. The combination of spicy bean paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a bold and savory flavor that pairs well with the soft tofu and optional century eggs.
Ingredients
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Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon spicy bean paste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons scallion (chopped)
- 1 pound silken tofu (or soft tofu)
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Optional Ingredients:
- 1–2 century eggs (peeled and cut into small wedges)
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (and/or Thai basil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, spicy bean paste, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and scallion.
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the tofu into cubes and place in a serving dish.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the dressing over the tofu. Add century eggs and cilantro on top if desired.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less spicy bean paste.
- Century eggs add a unique flavor to the dish, but feel free to omit them if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg