Tofu is a healthy option for those on a plant-based diet or who want to lose weight. Compared to most animal-based proteins, tofu is a low-calorie, high-protein alternative. Tofu contains calcium and magnesium, which keep bones strong and preserve bone mineral density. Visit Insider’s Health Reference library for more advice.
Tofu is a food that is made by curdling soy milk from soybeans and pressing the curds into soft white blocks. Besides being high in protein, tofu is also a good source of manganese, calcium, selenium and phosphorus.
You should be asking “What are the health benefits of tofu?”
Tofu contains saponins (plant compounds) that may reduce blood cholesterol and increase bile acid disposal. Both these functions, in turn, help lower heart disease risk. Tofu’s isoflavone content may also help lower the markers of cardiovascular disease.
Why does tofu smell bad?
The distinctive smell of stinky tofu comes from the various organic compounds which are present in the tofu due to the fermentation process. The most common compounds found in stinky tofu are indole, dimethyl trisulfide, phenol, dimethyl disulfide and dimethyl tetrasulfide which combine to form the distinctive aroma of the product.
When we were researching we ran into the question “Does tofu stink?”.
Stinky tofu or Chòudòufu (臭豆腐), is a form of fermented tofu and it is this fermented element that appears to give it its stink. How do you eat it? It is boiled up in front of you and is usually served on a wood skewer, or as 6 separate cubes served a polystyrene plate with a tooth pick.
When was stinky tofu first introduced to you?
I was first introduced to stinky tofu during my time living in Xi’an 14 years ago. I remember being generally in awe during this first trip to Asia, for many reasons, but not least the smells, particularly pertaining to food. To show how long ago this was I was actually on date when we walked past a fairly busy stall and I noticed a pungent smell.
This of course begs the question “What is barbecued stinky tofu?”
Cubes of stinky tofu are speared on a bamboo skewer are roasted over charcoal with roasted meat sauce. Because of the huge amount of seasonings, the unpleasant odor of barbecued stinky tofu is comparatively weaker. Therefore, barbecued stinky tofu is always recommended for people trying stinky tofu for the first time.
How to cook tofu perfectly every time?
How to cook tofu in the oven: Place cubes on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown (around 25 to 30 minutes). How to pan-fry tofu: Preheat a pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Place tofu steaks or cubes in the pan. To prevent sticking, let tofu cook for 3.
Where can I eat stinky tofu in China?
On main West Street in the heart of Yangshuo, China, there are a number of stinky tofu bicycle’s that conveniently park so everyone can smell them! One day, just before beginning a gorgeous bike ride in Yangshuo, I smelled it out – and it was time to eat stinky tofu!