Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)
臭豆腐
The infamous fermented tofu that smells terrible but tastes amazing — crispy outside, soft inside, Shaoxing's street food legend.
📋 Ingredients
What Is Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)?
💡 Ingredient Notes: Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐, chòu dòu fu) is one of China's most polarizing foods — a fermented tofu that smells awful but tastes incredible. The tofu is soaked in a fermented brine (made from vegetables, meat, or milk) for days, developing a powerful aroma that can be detected from blocks away. But when deep-fried, the outside becomes crispy and golden while the inside stays soft and creamy. The taste is savory, complex, and surprisingly mild compared to the smell. A beloved street food across China, especially in Shaoxing and Changsha. Don't judge it by the smell — give it one bite.
Ingredients You'll Need
The Tofu
- 500g extra-firm tofu, pressed
- 1 bottle stinky tofu marinade (available at Asian markets) OR fermented bean curd brine
Frying
- Oil for deep frying
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Serving
- Chili sauce or chili crisp
- Sweet soy sauce
- Pickled cabbage or radish
- Chopped cilantro and scallions
📝 Instructions
Ferment the tofu (if using marinade)
Cut the pressed tofu into 5cm (2 inch) squares. Submerge in the stinky tofu marinade and refrigerate for 2-4 days. Yes, it will smell. That's the point.
Coat and fry
Remove the tofu and pat dry. Lightly dust with cornstarch. Heat oil to 180°C (350°F) and fry the tofu squares for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy outside.
Serve
Serve immediately with chili sauce, sweet soy sauce, and pickled vegetables. The contrast of crispy outside and soft, pungent inside is the magic.
💡 Pro Tips
- 💡Buy pre-fermented stinky tofu at Asian markets if you don't want to ferment it yourself.
- 💡The smell is worse than the taste — one bite converts most skeptics.
- 💡Fry until very crispy — the crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft, pungent interior.
📊 Nutrition Facts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to eat? Yes — the fermentation is controlled and traditional. It's been eaten safely for centuries across China.
Why does it smell so bad? The fermentation produces compounds similar to those in strong cheese. The taste, however, is savory and complex.
Where do I get the marinade? Asian grocery stores sell stinky tofu marinade, or you can buy pre-fermented stinky tofu ready to fry.
