What Is Fish Tofu?
Fish tofu is not tofu at all — it is a processed fish cake made from surimi (fish paste) pressed into cube form and often lightly fried until golden. The result looks like tofu but has a bouncy, springy texture and mild seafood flavor. It is extremely beginner-friendly: it will not overcook, it soaks up broth beautifully, and its golden cubes look appealing in the pot. A staple of any Chinese hot pot spread.
Flavor & Texture
Flavor
Mild, slightly fishy, savory umami from the frying
Texture
Bouncy, springy, firm — soaks up broth flavor
How to Cook Fish Tofu in Hot Pot
CLEANING: Remove from packaging and rinse briefly. Fish tofu is already fully cooked during manufacture — you are only reheating.
CUTTING: Leave whole if small cubes. For larger pieces, cut in half to expose the interior for better broth absorption.
HOW TO COOK: Add directly to broth. Simmer 3–5 minutes minimum. Fish tofu is essentially impossible to overcook — the longer it simmers, the more flavor it absorbs.
DONENESS CUE: Fully heated through when the center feels warm when pressed. The exterior may develop slight texture changes after 8+ minutes of simmering — this is desirable, not a problem.
PRO TIP: Fish tofu is one of the best "background" ingredients in a hot pot — add it early and let it simmer throughout the meal. By the time you eat it (20–30 minutes in), it will be deeply flavored by the broth. Great for beginners because there is literally no way to fail.
Best Broths to Pair With
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I cook Fish Tofu in hot pot?
Cook Fish Tofu for 3–5 minutes. CLEANING: Remove from packaging and rinse briefly. Fish tofu is already fully cooked during manufacture — you are only reheating. CUTTING: Leave whole if small cubes. For larger pieces, cut in half...
What does Fish Tofu taste like?
Fish Tofu has a mild, slightly fishy, savory umami from the frying flavor. Texture: bouncy, springy, firm — soaks up broth flavor.
Which hot pot broth goes best with Fish Tofu?
Fish Tofu pairs best with: Sichuan Mala, Clear Bone Broth, Tomato Broth, Mushroom Broth.
