湯豆腐 （ゆどうふ / Yudōfu）
Hot tofu dish
- Category
- Hot pot
- Main Ingredient
- Grains & Noodles
Yudōfu is a simple hot pot made by warming water with kombu and gently simmering tofu. It is served with ponzu or soy sauce and condiments, highlighting the tofu’s delicate sweetness and warmth.
When / How to Eat
Yudōfu is a winter favorite. Hot tofu is scooped from the simmering pot and dipped in ponzu or soy sauce with condiments. It warms the body on cold days.
Cultural Background
Yudōfu originated in Kyoto and is also known as a Zen Buddhist vegetarian dish. It symbolizes Japan’s culinary philosophy of appreciating natural, unseasoned flavors.
Cautions
Handle tofu gently with chopsticks or a ladle to avoid breaking it.