Ingredients for pipa tofu includes shrimp and ground chicken or pork, but they may be omitted if you want a vegetarian option.
PIPA tofu is one of those dishes many would have eaten before but didn’t know its name.
It is pear-shaped like the ancient Chinese musical instrument, the pipa or lute, and is often associated with one of China’s legendary beauties, Xi Shi, who was said to have enjoyed it as her favourite dish.
Already a subscriber? Log in.
Save 30% and win Bosch appliances! More Info
Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Ingredients for pipa tofu includes shrimp and ground chicken or pork, but they may be omitted if you want a vegetarian option.
Tofu patty ingredients are blended into a slurry with cornstarch and seasoning.
Steam the tofu patty briefly in oiled porcelain soup spoons and reserve the steamed juices for the gravy dressing.
Dip the steamed tofu patty in egg, then coat with flour and garnish with a coriander leaf before deep-frying (left) in hot oil until light golden.
Pipa tofu is so named because the shape resembles the pipa, or Chinese lute. — Photos: LOW LAY PHON/The Star
