Silken Tofu: A Surprising Sweet Treat

Posted on

Silken tofu, a delicate and versatile ingredient, often takes a backseat in Western cuisine. However, in many Asian cultures, it’s a staple, especially in desserts. Today, we’re going to elevate this humble ingredient to new heights, creating a dish that marries the East and West: Cloud Nine Tofu pudding.

Ingredients:

1 block (340g) extra-firm silken tofu, drained

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • Mint leaves

  • Banana Vanilla Silken Tofu Pudding with Cookie Crumble (vegan)
    Banana Vanilla Silken Tofu Pudding with Cookie Crumble (vegan)

    Image Source: avocadoskillet.com

    Preparation:

    1. Prep the Tofu: Gently press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Crumble it into a large bowl.
    2. Sweeten the Dream: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, honey, vanilla, heavy cream, milk, and salt.
    3. Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a smooth slurry.
    4. Combine and Cook: Pour the sweetened mixture over the crumbled tofu. Whisk until smooth. Stir in the cornstarch slurry.
    5. Steam to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a heatproof dish. Cover with foil and steam for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
    6. Chill and Serve: Let the pudding cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled, topped with fresh berries and mint leaves.

    Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Tropical Paradise: Top with mango, pineapple, and coconut flakes.

  • Decadent Delight: Drizzle with chocolate sauce and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Elegant Affair: Garnish with edible flowers and a dusting of powdered sugar.

  • A Fusion of Cultures

    This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. The silky texture of the tofu is a nod to traditional Chinese desserts, while the sweetness and creaminess are reminiscent of Western puddings. The fresh berries and mint add a touch of European elegance. Each bite is a journey through diverse culinary traditions, culminating in a harmonious and delightful experience.

    As we savor this Cloud Nine Tofu Pudding, we’re reminded of the beauty of culinary exploration. By blending flavors and techniques from different cultures, we create something truly unique and extraordinary.