China, Hong Kong SAR - Smelly Tofu

The smelly tofu is a street food mostly associated with Hong Kong. While the smell (or aroma) of it from afar can be a put off for those who have yet to acquire a taste for this street delicacy, it is a snack popularly enjoyed by locals and those tourists who have developed a taste for it.

Smelly tofu is made from fermented tofu (bean curd) which is deep fried to a nice golden brown colour and served with locally-made condiments such as chili sauce or sweet sauce. Best eaten while the tofu is still hot and crispy, this locally well-loved street food is widely available in Hong Kong, especially in the areas of Mong Kok around the Yau Ma Tei and Prince Edward MTR Stations.

The smell does not justify the taste and those who were brave enough to eat it despite the smell, will usually fall in love with, or at least not hate it!

In Taipei, smelly tofu can also be found in the many night markets of the city. Personally, I find that the taste and texture of the smelly tofu in Taipei to be slightly different from that in Hong Kong. It is difficult to describe due to the subtle differences and one simply has to try it to know it.

So if you are visiting Hong Kong or Taipei, do give this street delicacy a try, especially if you have never tasted it before. After all, what is travelling when one does not get to eat what the locals eat? :-)

Smelly Tofu, Mong Kok, Hong Kong SAR, China (2017)