Easy Japanese Cold Tofu (Hiyayakko) recipe

japanese cold tofu (hiyayakko) with soy sauce, green onion, ginger, and bonito flakes

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Easy Japanese Cold Tofu (Hiyayakko) recipe

A simple side dish or snack made in 5 minutes: Japanese Cold Tofu! A block of chilled tofu is topped with a drizzle of soy sauce and toppings of choice. A dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan-friendly dish that requires no cooking. Cool off with this traditional Japanese dish on hot summer days!

Prep Time5

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: Japanese

Keyword: Silken Tofu, Soft Tofu, Tofu

Servings: as side

Calories: 70kcal

Author: Lis Lam

Equipment

sharp knife
ginger grater or microplane

Ingredients

1 package, 454 grams Silken Tofu or Soft Tofu *chilled in fridge
1-2 Tbsp soy sauce, divided *add a drizzle (or more, if you like) for each portion
2 Tbsp Bonito Flakes (Katsuoboshi), divided *optional, leave out for a vegan option
1-2 Green onion, divided
1 Tbsp Ginger, divided

Additional topping ideas:

umeboshi plum
cherry tomatoes, halved
cucumber, thinly sliced

Instructions

Chop green onion. Finely mince the green onion. Set aside.
Grate ginger. Peel ginger, using a vegetable peeler or sharp paring knife. Using a microplane or ceramic ginger grater, grate ginger until mushy and juicy. Set aside.
Drain Tofu. With a sharp paring knife, cut slits into the top film of the tofu package. Do not remove the plastic film on top. Instead, hold onto the top of the cut film with one hand and gently turn over, draining excess water. Remove the film.
To make 1 large portion: Flip the tofu block onto a small plate with a rimmed edge. Tips: Jiggle the tofu gently until it releases from the box. You can also cut a notch on the bottom of the tofu box so air will enter the bottom and make it easier to release the vacuum seal.
To make 4 small portions: Cut the tofu block into 4 equal pieces. To make it easier for the tofu to release, cut around the edges of the box. Or, cut a notch on the bottom of the tofu box o air will enter the bottom and make it easier to release the vacuum seal. Using clean hands, gently remove the pieces and transfer to 4 small dishes or small bowls. Be gentle! The tofu will be delicate.
Add toppings. Add chopped green onion, a small amount of the grated ginger pinched into a ball, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes (if using). Right before serving, drizzle soy sauce on top.
Serve. Serve immediately, as a meal with rice, soup, and other side dishes. Or, as a snack with cold beer and edamame. Enjoy!

Video

Nutrition