Century Egg with Silken Tofu

Century Egg with Silken Tofu is a refreshing Chinese dish perfect for hot summer days. The silky smooth tofu pairs beautifully with the unique flavor of century eggs, while the pickled mustard greens add a salty crunch, and the cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous touch. This dish is light, flavorful, and ideal for a cool, satisfying meal.

Although making Century Egg with Silken Tofu is simple, there are a few key details to ensure each step brings out the best in this dish.

1.Choosing and Preparing the Tofu:

Opt for silken tofu or soft tofu for the best results. These types are more delicate and ideal for a cold dish like this. If you can’t find silken tofu, soft tofu is a good substitute, but handle it with care to prevent it from crumbling. To remove any slight bean taste, briefly blanch the tofu in boiling water for about 10 seconds, then immediately cool it in ice water. This step also helps the tofu become even smoother. When slicing the tofu, use a sharp knife and gentle pressure to keep the slices intact.

2.Handling Century Eggs:

Century eggs have a rich, distinct flavor that may be intense for some. If it’s your first time trying them, consider pairing them with milder ingredients to balance their taste. When cutting the eggs, a clean, thin thread (like dental floss) works wonders for making clean, even slices without squishing the yolk. If you use a knife, wet it slightly to reduce stickiness.

3.Substituting and Preparing Pickled Mustard Greens:

Pickled mustard greens add a savory, crunchy element to the dish. These can be found at most Asian grocery stores. If unavailable, you can substitute with other pickled vegetables like kimchi or pickles, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. If the mustard greens come in large pieces, chop them finely so they can be evenly distributed over the tofu.

4.Garnishing with Cilantro and Green Onion:

Cilantro and green onion are essential for adding color and fresh flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh mint or another herb. Slice the green onion finely and sprinkle it over the tofu for a balanced and visually appealing garnish.

5.Mixing and Adjusting the Sauce:

The basic sauce consists of 3 teaspoons of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of aged vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This combination gives a balanced savory, tangy, and aromatic flavor. Feel free to adjust the ratio according to your taste—add a bit of sugar for sweetness or a dash of chili oil for heat. Prepare the sauce just before serving to maintain its freshness.

6.Plating and Presentation:

For the best visual appeal, use a light-colored or white plate to make the colors pop. Arrange the tofu slices neatly on the plate, then evenly sprinkle the pickled mustard greens and century eggs on top. Garnish with cilantro and green onion, then drizzle the sauce over the dish just before serving to keep the tofu’s texture crisp and fresh.

7.Selecting and Substituting Kitchen Tools:

You’ll need a sharp knife or fine thread for cutting the tofu and century eggs. If you don’t have a sharp enough knife, a long-handled kitchen knife can be used with gentle pressure. For mixing the sauce, a small bowl and spoon are sufficient, and if you don’t have measuring spoons, regular teaspoons will work.

By following these detailed steps and tips, even beginners can successfully create a delicious and visually appealing Century Egg with Silken Tofu, ensuring a great result every time!

8.More Delicious Century Egg and Tofu Recipes

If you enjoyed this delicious Century Egg with Silken Tofu, you won't want to miss these other tasty century egg and tofu recipes. These simple, crowd-pleasing dishes are perfect for your next gathering!

Century Egg Recipe

Silken Tofu

Steamed Tofu With Shrimp Paste