Hiyayakko (Chilled Tofu)

Hiyayakko is a refreshing Japanese dish featuring chilled tofu topped with soy sauce, green onions, and bonito flakes. A light, healthy, and simple recipe perfect for warm days!

Great

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Start by preparing the tofu. Remove the tofu block from its packaging and place it gently on a cutting board. Pat the tofu dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 4 equal pieces, one for each serving. Be careful as silken tofu is delicate.

Step 2

Once cut, transfer each tofu piece to a small, shallow serving dish. It’s important to handle the tofu gently to avoid breaking its structure. If your tofu is very soft, you may want to let it drain on a paper towel for a few minutes to remove additional moisture.

Step 3

Prepare the toppings. Finely chop the green onions, and set aside. Grate fresh ginger using a fine grater and keep that ready as well. These toppings will add freshness and sharpness to balance the mild tofu.

Step 4

If you are using bonito flakes and sesame seeds, prepare them now. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until they release their aroma, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 5

Once all the toppings are ready, drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce over each piece of tofu. This adds a savoury umami flavour that pairs beautifully with the tofu’s subtle taste.

Step 6

Top each tofu piece with about 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Then sprinkle the chopped green onions evenly over each serving. These ingredients provide a light bite and elevate the overall flavour.

Step 7

For an extra layer of flavour, sprinkle a small amount of bonito flakes on top of each tofu piece, if desired. This adds a light, smoky flavour to the dish. You can also add a small dab of wasabi on the side for those who like a bit of heat.

Step 8

Serve the Hiyayakko immediately while chilled. The best way to enjoy it is by letting the soy sauce and toppings mingle with the tofu in each bite. Pair with a side of steamed rice or miso soup to complete the meal. The simplicity of this dish showcases the freshness of each ingredient, making it a perfect light appetizer or side dish in Japanese cuisine.

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