At the table
Try a small piece. If firm, let it soften in hot milk tea, then cool it before eating.
Contains milk and is not vegan. Dried blocks can be hard or chewy; the name does not mean it is soy tofu.
The plain milk-curd preparation is lacto-vegetarian and has no chili. Sourness, sweetness and firmness vary; check additions and accompaniments separately.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Both dried blocks and softer forms are made.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Milky, sometimes tart
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Firm; dryness varies
- How it’s made
- Heat fermented milk, strain, press and dry.
Both dried blocks and softer forms are made.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Inner Mongolia.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有奶豆腐吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Milk Tofu, Made from Dairy
Nai doufu means milk tofu, but it is a dairy curd rather than soy tofu. In traditional preparation, fermented milk is heated and drained, then pressed into molds and dried. It belongs to Inner Mongolia’s white foods. Blocks may be dry and firm or softer; softening a piece in hot milk tea is a common way to eat it.