Guxian Dried Tofu

Guxian Dried Tofu

　　Guxian Dried Tofu is a famous specialty of Guxian Town, Yuechi County, Guang’an City, Sichuan Province. This product owes its exceptional quality to a thousand-year-old secret recipe, the unique properties of Guxian’s water, and the refinement of its traditional production techniques. The tofu from Guxian is tender, refreshing, smooth, delicate, and has an authentic flavor that never tires the palate.

　　Guxian Dried Tofu, also known as Guxian Dougan or by its more descriptive names Guxian Cowhide Dried Tofu or Guxian Five-Spice Cowhide Dried Tofu. Thanks to the magic of a time-honored recipe, the unique qualities of Guxian’s water, and the meticulous craftsmanship refined over generations, the tofu here is tender, refreshing, smooth, and richly flavored—delicious no matter how many times you try it. A distinctive tofu banquet features up to 180 different dishes.

　　How Guxian Dried Tofu Is Made:

　　The tofu is meticulously crafted into thin slices about the size of cowhide, approximately one square foot divided into 16 squares. It is then repeatedly brushed with fragrant brine oil (made by simmering Chinese medicinal herbs such as cinnamon, star anise, costus root, clove, agarwood, fennel, and sandalwood along with rock sugar and vegetable oil), and left to dry until it turns a glossy dark tea or brown color. Once dried and hardened, it becomes Five-Spice Cowhide Dried Tofu. Sliced into thin strips or small pieces and served on a plate, it has a soft yet chewy texture, a pure and delicious taste, and a lingering aftertaste that seems endless. It leaves diners craving more, and pairs wonderfully with three glasses of wine—offering a heavenly delight. It is a premium delicacy ideal for entertaining guests or giving as a gift.