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Yunnan Smashed Tofu Salad
Home Cooking
Crumbled tofu tossed with Yunnan herbs, chili, and a tangy dressing — a humble yet addictive side dish.
🛒 Ingredients
- 400 g firm tofu
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp black vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp chili oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 fresh red chili, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 scallions, sliced
- 50 g roasted peanuts, crushed
- Salt and sugar to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1. Wash and prepare the main ingredient
- 2. Boil a pot of water and cook the main ingredient until done
- 3. Remove and plunge into cold water, then drain
- 4. Prepare the sauce mixture
- 5. Toss the main ingredient with the sauce
- 6. Plate and serve; even better chilled
📖 Culture & History
Smashed Tofu is a beloved everyday dish in Yunnan households. While similar tofu dishes exist across China, the Yunnan version stands out for its generous use of fresh herbs and the distinctive combination of black vinegar and sesame oil. It represents the Yunnan approach to vegetarian cooking: simple ingredients transformed by bold seasonings. The dish is often served as part of a larger family meal alongside rice and one or two meat dishes. Street vendors in Kunming also sell it as a quick snack, topped with extra chili for those who like it spicy.