At the table
Let the hot center cool slightly. Take small bites and dip to taste; if served slit open, add a little sauce to the opening. You do not need to swallow a whole fritter.
Contains soy; the dip includes sesame and may contain wheat through soy sauce. Chili heat depends on the dip. Check the tofu seasoning, frying oil and sauce if avoiding animal ingredients.
Seasoning and dips vary. The version here uses pickled radish, fish mint, garlic, coriander, chili, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame and Sichuan-pepper oils, and sugar in the dip.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Seasoning and dips vary. The version here uses pickled radish, fish mint, garlic, coriander, chili, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame and Sichuan-pepper oils, and sugar in the dip.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory tofu with a sour, chili-hot dip; fish mint adds its distinctive herbal aroma.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Crisp outside, soft and lightly airy inside.
- How it’s made
- Sour-set tofu is mashed with ginger, scallion, salt, pepper, Sichuan pepper, MSG and edible alkali, rested, shaped and deep-fried in vegetable oil.
Seasoning and dips vary. The version here uses pickled radish, fish mint, garlic, coriander, chili, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame and Sichuan-pepper oils, and sugar in the dip.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Its origins are linked to Guizhou.
About this regional connection
Guizhou: Guiyangsour-setfriedtofuyuanzi,notstuffedGuangxitofurounds.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有贵阳豆腐圆子吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
The dip completes the bite
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
In Guiyang, fried tofu rounds are paired with a lively dipping sauce. Some are slit open so sauce reaches the soft middle; the contrast of crisp crust, tender tofu and sharp seasoning is part of their appeal.