1STEP 1 | Place firm tofu into a large bowl and mash it thoroughly with hands into a smooth purée.
Deep-Fried Tofu Balls with Chive Sauce
Crispy outside and silky inside, paired with refreshing chive sauce for a savory crunch!
This comforting home-style dish transforms firm tofu into smooth paste blended with flavorful diced BBQ pork, pine nuts, and egg, shaped into bite-sized balls and deep-fried to a golden crisp. Served over an aromatic dipping base made of fresh chives brewed with boiling water and sea salt, it delivers a delightful contrast of crispy texture, rich bean aroma, and refreshing herbal flavors.
Time25min
SuitableHome-cooking fans
MethodBraise
OccasionHome dinner
SeasonAll seasons
Big City Shop
Full Episode Video
Ingredients（Serves 2-3）
Quick Method
2STEP 2 | Add diced BBQ pork (char siu) and pine nuts into the mashed tofu.
3STEP 3 | Pour in beaten egg and mix thoroughly with the tofu and ingredients.
4STEP 4 | Add salt, white pepper, and cornstarch, stirring in one direction until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive.
5STEP 5 | Wash the Chinese chives and finely chop them into small pieces.
6STEP 6 | Shape the tofu mixture into round balls using hands and a spoon, then roll them evenly in breadcrumbs.
7STEP 7 | Heat oil in a wok until bubbles form around chopsticks; gently lower tofu balls into the oil and deep-fry over medium heat until golden and crispy, then drain.
8STEP 8 | Prepare chive sauce: mix chopped chives with 6 tbsp boiling water and 1/4 tsp salt, then spread over the base of a serving platter.
9STEP 9 | Arrange deep-fried tofu balls onto the bed of chive sauce, garnish with fresh chive shreds on top, and serve.
Tips and Pitfalls
Mash Tofu Thoroughly
Mash firm tofu completely with no lumps so the balls hold shape easily.
Stir in One Direction
Stirring in one direction develops binding texture to keep balls firm when fried.
Medium Heat for Frying
Maintain medium oil heat so the exterior turns crisp without burning.
Boiling Water for Chives
Pouring boiling water over raw chives unlocks aroma while retaining vibrant color.
Overview
This comforting home-style dish transforms firm tofu into smooth paste blended with flavorful diced BBQ pork, pine nuts, and egg, shaped into bite-sized balls and deep-fried to a golden crisp. Served over an aromatic dipping base made of fresh chives brewed with boiling water and sea salt, it delivers a delightful contrast of crispy texture, rich bean aroma, and refreshing herbal flavors.
