Forget everything you thought you knew about tofu. This surprisingly delightful dessert recipe transforms silken tofu into a creamy, dreamy base for a simple yet elegant treat: Silky Tofu with Sweetened Tapioca Pearls. The soft, almost custard-like texture of the tofu provides a perfect canvas for the chewy sweetness of tapioca pearls, creating a unique and satisfying culinary experience. This recipe is surprisingly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and even less expertise.
We'll be using pantry staples to create a surprisingly luxurious dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The subtle, slightly nutty flavor of the tofu beautifully complements the sweetness of the tapioca pearls and the delicate touch of sugar syrup. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a magical dessert? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this captivating Silky Tofu with Sweetened Tapioca Pearls.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Spoon
- Beer can (optional)
Ingredients
- Soy milk: 1 liter
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (20g)
- Tapioca starch: 1 tablespoon (15g)
- Agar-agar powder (jelly): 1/4 teaspoon (2.5g)
- Sweetened condensed milk: 50g (3 tablespoons)
- Tapioca starch (for pearls): 100g
- Boiling water: null
- Palm sugar: 130g
- Water: 200ml
- Pandan leaves: null
- Ginger: null
- Salt: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Silky Tofu
- Combine soy milk, sugar, agar-agar, and condensed milk in a pot. Stir until well combined.
- Cook over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl and let it cool and solidify.



Step 2. Make the Tapioca Pearls
- Gradually add boiling water to tapioca starch until it forms a dough. Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Roll the dough into long strands and cut into small pieces. Roll the pieces into balls.
- Boil the tapioca pearls for 30 minutes, then let them sit for another 10-15 minutes.



Step 3. Prepare the Sweetened Tapioca Pearl Syrup
- Combine palm sugar, water, pandan leaves, ginger, and salt in a pot. Simmer until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the boiled tapioca pearls to the sugar water.


Step 4. Assemble the Dessert
- Once the tofu has solidified, scoop it out using a spoon or a beer can opener. Pour the sugar water and tapioca pearls over the tofu.

Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- If you don't have soy milk from a tofu shop, you can substitute with duck soy milk.
- Stir the mixture continuously while cooking to prevent lumps.
- Cook the sugar water on medium heat, do not let it boil vigorously.
- Use a beer can opener for scooping the tofu for a smoother texture; a spoon works well too.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of tofu instead of silken tofu?
No, silken tofu is crucial for its incredibly smooth and creamy texture. Other tofus will be too firm and won't achieve the desired dessert-like consistency.
2. How can I make the tapioca pearls sweeter?
Adjust the sugar in the tapioca syrup to your liking. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract or other flavorings to customize the sweetness and overall taste.
This Silky Tofu with Sweetened Tapioca Pearls recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dessert. The delightful combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress your guests, and the ease of preparation makes it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this unique and refreshing treat!