Douhua (豆花), or Tofu Pudding, is a beloved dessert in Chinese cuisine that boasts a smooth, creamy texture. Whether you enjoy it warm for comfort or cold for a refreshing treat, this recipe brings the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture of homemade tofu pudding to your kitchen. Both versions, traditional and Haidilao-inspired, are easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings!
What is Dohua?
Douhua (Tofu Pudding) is a popular Chinese dessert made from soy milk. It has a silky, smooth, and custard-like texture that melts in your mouth. Often served warm or cold, Douhua is enjoyed with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savory, making it a versatile treat.
The recipe is simple, requiring just soy milk and a coagulant, but it allows for plenty of customization. You can top it with sweet syrup, red beans, fruits, or even savory seasonings. A popular variation is Haidilao-style tofu pudding, served cold with a creamy, refreshing texture.
Who is This Recipe Suitable For?
- Families: This is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Kids will love it with fruits, while adults can enjoy sweet or savory options.
- Health-conscious eaters: Dairy-free, gluten-free, and low in calories, Douhua is perfect for those looking for a healthier dessert.
- People with dietary restrictions: This plant-based treat is great for vegans, lactose intolerant individuals, or anyone following specific diets.
- Those looking for a refreshing dessert: The cold Haidilao-style version is perfect for a hot day, offering a cool, creamy treat.
Key Benefits of Douhua
- Dairy-Free & Vegan-Friendly: Made from soy milk, it’s a great choice for plant-based diets.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, whether sweet or savory.
- Light & Refreshing: Both warm and cold versions are light and satisfying.
- Great for Various Diets: Gluten-free and suitable for many dietary needs.
Traditional Douhua Recipe (Warm Version)
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of fresh soy milk (or homemade)
- 1-2 tablespoons of coagulant (nigari, Epsom salt, lemon juice, or apple cider vinegar)
- Optional toppings: Brown sugar syrup, sweet red beans, crushed peanuts, chopped fruits
Instructions:
Prepare the Soy Milk:
Heat the soy milk in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Heat it until it reaches about 80°C (176°F). Don’t let it boil.Prepare the Coagulant:
Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of nigari (or lemon juice/vinegar) in 1/4 cup of warm water.Coagulate the Soy Milk:
Once the soy milk is heated, remove it from the heat and slowly add the coagulant solution, stirring gently. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes until the curds form and the whey separates.Serve:
Scoop the tofu pudding into small bowls or cups. Serve immediately while warm, or let it cool. Top with syrup, red beans, peanuts, or fruits.
Haidilao-Style Cold Tofu Pudding
Ingredients:
- 2 liters of soy milk
- 1 liter of water
- Tofu pudding powder (from Asian grocery stores)
- Pandan leaves (optional, for fragrance)
- Sugar (to taste)
Instructions:
Prepare the Soy Milk Mixture:
In a pot, combine soy milk, water, and pandan leaves. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Add sugar to taste.Add the Tofu Pudding Powder:
Once the mixture boils, remove from heat and stir in tofu pudding powder. Make sure it dissolves completely.Chill:
Pour the mixture into small bowls or containers. Let it cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.Serve:
Once chilled, the pudding will have a smooth, custardy texture. Top with your favorite sweet syrup, red beans, or fruits.
Why Use Pandan and Tofu Pudding Powder?
Pandan leaves add a unique, fragrant flavor to the pudding, but you can also use pandan extract if you can’t find fresh leaves. Tofu pudding powder ensures the pudding sets perfectly, giving it that smooth, creamy texture you love.
Final Thoughts:
Homemade Douhua is a fun and rewarding dessert to make. Whether you go for the traditional warm version or the refreshing Haidilao-style cold pudding, you’ll enjoy the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Customize your pudding with sweet or savory toppings, and enjoy a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
