Mirror Box Tofu

Last updated 2026-11-10 — Take three packages (pieces) of small box tofu, cut each package into four pieces, place them in a colander to drain the water, then gently slide them into a wok of oil heated to 70–80% hot. Deep-fry until all sides are golden brown, then remove. Next, hollow out the center of the tofu, place the mixed minced meat filling inside the hollowed-out section, and embed the shrimp on top of the meat filling. Fry them again in the wok, then remove and place them in the pot. Add mushrooms, bamboo slices, and seasonings, and simmer over low heat. When ready to serve, add some starch slurry and sesame oil, arrange neatly on a plate, and sprinkle with some green peas. The red and green contrast with the black and white, creating an attractive appearance with a fragrant aroma. Each piece of tofu resembles a rectangular mirror box, with the outer skin soft and wrinkled, golden yellow, topped with golden-white shrimp and tender white filling inside. Created in 1943 by Yingbinlou Restaurant, this dish is now best prepared at China Hotel.