Youxian Tofu

Youxian Tofu

Youxian tofu is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Youxian tofu enjoys widespread fame, including fragrant dried tofu, hundred-sheet tofu from Taoshui, water tofu from Huangtuling, and oil tofu from Yajiangqiao.

　　 The production of Youxian tofu has a long history. According to the "Youxian County Annals," during the Ming and Qing dynasties, Youxian tofu flourished as an industry and was renowned throughout the region. Many tofu artisans in Youxian have inherited their craft through generations, taught by their fathers. The tofu-making process is unique, with meticulous craftsmanship. Strict quality control is applied in aspects such as water selection, bean sorting, grinding, boiling, and coagulation, ensuring high quality. The tofu is popular for its freshness, tenderness, smooth texture, warm color, and fragrant taste.

　　　　According to statistics from relevant departments, in 2009 there were about 300 companies or small workshops in Youxian producing tofu, with an annual output value of 40 million yuan. Among them, three companies registered and certified under the industrial product QS system are Lazhi Tofu, Wanshifa, and Shiji Hong, two of which have five products that have received national patents. Currently, the largest producer is Lazhi Soy Products Company, which employs around 35 staff year-round, consuming up to 5,800 jin of soybeans in a single day at peak times. Its actual annual output value is nearly 10 million yuan. Its main products include nine series and 21 varieties such as "Lazhi" brand fermented bean curd, dried tofu sticks, and fragrant dried tofu, which are sold in cities such as Beijing, Changsha, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Urumqi. The products are in high demand, and have been featured in special reports by Beijing TV, Hunan TV, and Hunan People's Radio. "Wanshifa" and "Lazhi" tofu have won multiple gold and silver awards at provincial agricultural expos. Youxian green pepper stir-fried fragrant tofu gained fame at the World Expo and will make its debut at the Guangzhou Food Festival and Asian Games.

　　 Method for making Youxian fragrant tofu: Select fresh soybeans, remove impurities, wash them, and soak in water for several hours until fully hydrated. Grind the beans into slurry, filter out the soybean dregs, then heat the mixture appropriately before placing it in a container. Mix it evenly with gypsum water, and when the soy milk is about to coagulate, drain the water. Scoop out the tofu curds with a ladle, then use a filter cloth to manually remove excess moisture. Lightly press to shape, and the fragrant tofu is complete.