Taiwan Stinky Tofu, Very Famous Taiwanese Food
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| Foto: dok Raksantara.com |
Taiwan is known for its delicious and diverse culinary culture. One of the most popular and iconic traditional Taiwanese dishes is stinky tofu, or chou tofu.
Stinky tofu is a traditional Taiwanese snack made from fermented tofu. It is known for its strong, pungent smell and soft texture. Stinky tofu is often served with chili sauce or soy sauce as a topping. It is considered a delicacy in Taiwan and can be found at night markets and street vendors across the country.
The history of stinky tofu is not well documented, but it is believed to have originated in the southern part of the island, particularly in Tainan City. It is said that stinky tofu was first made accidentally when tofu was left to ferment for too long. People discovered that the fermented tofu had a unique and delicious taste, and thus, stinky tofu was born.
Stinky tofu became a popular snack in Taiwan during the 20th century, especially in the 1950s and 60s. It was often sold at night markets and by street vendors, quickly becoming a beloved local food.
How to Make Taiwanese Stinky Tofu
To make Taiwanese stinky tofu, you will need the following ingredients:
- Firm tofu
- Salt
- Rice flour
- Water
Instructions:
- Cut the tofu into small cubes or slices.
- Mix salt and rice flour together in a bowl, then add enough water to make a thick paste.
- Place the tofu in a container, then sprinkle the salt and rice flour mixture over it.
- Cover the container and let it ferment in a warm place for at least 24 hours.
- Once the tofu is fermented, it is ready to eat.
- You can eat it as is or fry it in oil to give it a crispy texture.
Where to Find Stinky Tofu in Taiwan
There are many places in Taiwan where you can find stinky tofu. Some popular spots include:
- Shilin Night Market in Taipei: One of the most famous night markets in Taiwan, known for its variety of street foods, including stinky tofu.
- Tainan City: Known for its traditional street snacks, you can find many places selling stinky tofu here.
- Taichung City: Also famous for its street food, you can find numerous vendors selling stinky tofu in Taichung.
Stinky Tofu Prices in Taiwan
Generally, stinky tofu is considered a street snack and is relatively inexpensive. Some vendors might charge around 70-90 TWD. It is often sold in large quantities, so you can buy more for a discounted price. Some vendors also offer different types of stinky tofu at varying prices.
In some places, stinky tofu is sold as a gourmet item at higher prices due to its unique taste, aroma, and texture. Prices at these locations can range from 50 TWD (approximately 25,000 IDR) to 100 TWD (approximately 50,000 IDR).
Other Taiwanese Specialties
There are many other Taiwanese foods you should try, such as bubble milk tea, xiaolongbao, and oyster omelets. However, we will discuss these in our next article.
Enjoy your culinary adventures in Taiwan!
