Fried Dried Tofu

Fried Dried Tofu

　　[Fried Dried Tofu]: On Xiheyan and Xihuo Lane, there were Hu Family Tofu Shop and Chen Family Tofu Shop. For generations, besides selling tofu, they also sold fried dried tofu. Hu Xiangui from Hu Family Shop (nicknamed Hu Lao Wu) would soak the pressed tofu slices in brine, then sun-dry them before frying them in oil. The result was a honeycomb-like texture, yellow on the outside and white inside, with a crispy skin and tender interior. Sprinkled with pepper sauce and eaten hot, it has a truly unique flavor. Sometimes, the fried tofu is also simmered in a five-spice broth (with fennel, ginger, cinnamon, scallions, and garlic), then served in a bowl. This is called “Soup-Boiled Fried Tofu.” Eating it while sipping the broth, you’ll find it tender, fragrant, spicy, steaming hot, delicious, and full of flavor — a true taste delight.