Qichun Loach Burrowing into Tofu

Last updated 2026-11-13 — Qichun Loach Burrowing into Tofu is a famous local folk dish. The method of preparation is as follows: take live yellow loaches about the thickness of a pinky finger, keep them in clean water for one or two days to allow them to expel all impurities from their bellies. Heat a pan over a fire, add fragrant oil, chopped scallions, minced ginger, and other seasonings, then place a whole piece of tender tofu in the pan, followed by the loaches. Simmer over low heat. As the loaches heat up, they burrow into the tofu until the tofu breaks apart. When the loaches stop burrowing and moving, and the tofu begins to sizzle, increase the heat, add an appropriate amount of lard, soy sauce, salt, mashed garlic, white vinegar, and five-spice powder. Flip and simmer for a while, then sprinkle some chopped scallions before serving. (Qichun)