Sai Gon Sweetened Tofu
Sai Gon Sweetened Tofu, also known as "Tào Phớ" in Vietnamese, is a delightful and refreshing dessert originating from the bustling streets of Saigon. This dessert gained popularity for its smooth, silky texture combined with the subtle sweetness that makes it irresistible, especially on hot days. It is a staple in Vietnamese culinary culture, often enjoyed as a light dessert or a midday treat. Historically, this dish is influenced by Chinese tofu desserts but has been adapted to suit the Vietnamese palate, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. This recipe will help you recreate the authentic flavor of Sai Gon Sweetened Tofu at home.
Ingredients
- Soybeans - 1 cup
- Agar Agar - 1 teaspoon
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Water - 4 cups
- Pandan Leaves - 2
- Coconut Milk - 1 cup
- Salt - A pinch
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Soak the Soybeans
Begin by soaking the soybeans overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them completely. This will soften the beans and make them easier to process into tofu.
Step 2: Blend the Soybeans
Drain the soaked soybeans and rinse them thoroughly. Transfer them to a blender, add 2 cups of fresh water, and blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Strain the Soy Milk
Pour the blended soybean mixture through a muslin cloth or fine strainer into a saucepan, extracting the liquid to form soy milk. Discard the pulp or save it for another use.
Step 4: Cook the Soy Milk
Bring the strained soy milk to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Add a pinch of salt and reduce the heat to simmer. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Agar Agar mixture
While the soy milk is simmering, dissolve agar agar in 1 cup of water. Let it soak for a few minutes. Heat this mixture over medium heat until the agar agar completely dissolves.
Step 6: Combine Soy Milk and Agar Agar
Slowly add the dissolved agar agar into the soy milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until thoroughly mixed.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Set the Tofu
Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place it in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow it to set.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Syrup
While the tofu is setting, prepare the sweet syrup. In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water, and the knotted pandan leaves. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 3: Add Coconut Milk
Once the syrup is done, let it cool slightly before adding the coconut milk. Stir well to combine. Remove the pandan leaves before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy Sai Gon Sweetened Tofu, cut the set tofu into bite-sized cubes. Place them in serving bowls and drizzle the coconut syrup generously over the top. This dessert is best served chilled, so consider placing the bowls in the refrigerator for a few minutes before serving. The silky texture of the tofu combined with the rich sweetness of coconut syrup makes every bite a delightful experience.
Enjoy this traditional Vietnamese dessert as is, or pair it with fresh tropical fruits like mangoes or lychee to enhance the flavors. For those seeking an extra texture, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top of the dessert before serving. Bon appétit!