Hakka Stuffed Tofu

Introduction

A beloved dish in many Hakka households, Hakka Stuffed Tofu (Yong Tau Foo) is comfort food at its finest — simple, hearty, and full of flavour. The combination of soft tofu and savoury minced filling makes it a festive favourite, especially during Chinese New Year gatherings. Each bite delivers a delicious contrast of textures — silky tofu, juicy prawn and pork filling, and a touch of umami from soy sauce. Best of all, it’s healthy, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family.

Ingredients

Makes 20 pieces

Main:

• 500g firm tofu

• 4 tbsp corn flour

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 spring onion, finely sliced (for garnish)

• 1 coriander (for garnish)

• 3 tbsp light soy sauce (for garnish)

Stuffing:

• 1 knob ginger (½ cm in length), finely chopped

• ½ spring onion, finely chopped

• 1 handful coriander, finely chopped

• 100g minced pork

• 100g raw prawns, minced into paste

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• ½ tbsp Shaoxing wine

• ¼ tsp sugar

• 1 pinch ground white pepper

• 1 tbsp corn flour

Method

1. Prepare the stuffing:
   Massage all the stuffing ingredients together in a mixing bowl.

2. Tenderize the filling:
   Scoop the filling in a cupped hand and throw it back into the bowl. Repeat this 5–6 times to remove air and create a smooth, springy texture.

3. Prepare the tofu:
   Slice the tofu into 4x4x2 cm squares. Carefully scoop out a small ‘crater’ in the middle of each square and lightly dust the tofu with corn flour.

4. Stuff the tofu:
   Fill each tofu piece with 1 heaped teaspoon of the stuffing mix. Any leftover filling can be rolled into small meatballs and steamed alongside the tofu.

5. Steam:
   Set up a steamer over simmering water. Steam the tofu over high heat for 10 minutes.

6. Add aroma:
   Heat vegetable oil in a wok over high heat until smoking. Scatter sliced spring onion and coriander over the tofu, then pour the hot oil on top to release fragrance.

7. Season and serve:
   Drizzle with light soy sauce and serve hot.

🍽️ Takeaway

Hakka Stuffed Tofu is a timeless recipe that celebrates the beauty of humble ingredients and home-style cooking. It’s packed with protein from tofu, pork, and prawns, and steamed for a healthier twist. The dish symbolises prosperity and togetherness — making it a perfect addition to festive tables or cosy family dinners. Serve it with rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that warms the heart as much as the stomach.