Background of Chinese Century Egg and Tofu Salad
Chinese Century Egg and Tofu Salad, or 皮蛋豆腐 (Pídàn Dòufu), is a traditional Chinese appetizer known for its creamy texture, rich umami flavors, and refreshing qualities. This dish showcases two distinctly Chinese ingredients: silken tofu and century eggs. While simple to prepare, it embodies the complexity of Chinese culinary tradition, making it a staple in many Chinese households and restaurants.
A Blend of Contrasting Textures and Flavors
One of the most captivating aspects of this salad is the contrast in textures and flavors. The chilled silken tofu provides a soft, almost custard-like base, which pairs beautifully with the firm yet creamy century eggs. Century eggs, also known as preserved duck eggs or thousand-year eggs, have a unique, translucent black exterior with a dark greenish yolk. Despite their polarizing reputation, they offer a deep umami taste with hints of earthiness and creaminess.
The salad is brought to life with a fragrant soy dressing, featuring soy sauce for savoriness, sesame oil for nuttiness, rice vinegar for acidity, and chili oil for a subtle heat. Minced garlic and chopped scallions enhance the dish with an aromatic punch, while crushed roasted peanuts add a crunchy contrast.
The History of Century Eggs
Century eggs have been part of Chinese cuisine for over 600 years, with records dating back to the Ming Dynasty (14th–17th century). Legend has it that the process of making century eggs was discovered accidentally when duck eggs were preserved in alkaline clay during a time of food storage innovation. Over time, this preservation method became refined, resulting in the century eggs we know today.
To make century eggs, duck (or chicken/quail) eggs are cured in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice hulls for several weeks or months. The result is the distinct creamy, complex flavor, making them a prized delicacy. Century eggs are either enjoyed on their own with vinegar and ginger or incorporated into dishes like congee and cold appetizers such as Century Egg and Tofu Salad.
Why This Dish is Popular
This dish is a common and beloved cold appetizer served in Chinese restaurants and home kitchens, especially during warmer months. It is refreshing, light, and packed with umami flavors, making it the perfect starter or side dish for a larger meal. Beyond its taste, it is highly nutritious, as tofu provides protein and essential amino acids, while century eggs contain a good amount of iron and other minerals.
Additionally, the ease of preparation makes it a go-to dish for quick meals or gatherings. With minimal cooking required, this salad can be put together in just 10 minutes, making it an excellent last-minute appetizer that feels both sophisticated and deeply traditional.
Chinese Century Egg and Tofu Salad is more than just a simple dish—it is a representation of Chinese culinary ingenuity, where preservation techniques, texture contrasts, and bold flavors come together in harmony. Whether you are a fan of century eggs or trying them for the first time, this salad provides a wonderfully balanced experience that encapsulates both the heritage and flavors of Chinese cuisine.
Chinese Century Egg and Tofu Salad
Equipment
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Small Sauce Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block silken tofu Chilled, firm but soft texture
- 2 large century eggs Peeled and cut into quarters
Dressing
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce Preferably low-sodium
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 0.5 tsp sugar Adjust to taste
- 1 clove garlic Minced
- 1 tbsp scallions Finely chopped
- 0.5 tsp chili oil Optional, for heat
- 1 tsp roasted peanuts Crushed, for garnish
Instructions
- Gently remove the silken tofu from the package and place it on a serving plate. Pat dry excess moisture with a paper towel.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or gently break it apart into large chunks for a rustic presentation.
- Peel the century eggs and cut them into quarters. Arrange them on or around the tofu.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and chili oil (if using). Stir to mix well.
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the tofu and century eggs.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and crushed roasted peanuts for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately as a cold appetizer or side dish.