Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu is essentially fermented tofu that is deep-fried and seasoned with aromatics. While the taste is mild, the smell can be overwhelming when it’s cooking, especially in the hot, humid summer. It’s one of those street foods that you can detect by its pungent smell long before actually seeing it. And one either avoids this dish or, like my mother, has to eat it. Not all stinky tofu is vegan; some brines are made with shrimp paste or fermented milk.