Anhui Stinky Tofu (Chou Dou Fu) — Fermentation for Aroma
China — national tradition; regional variants across all provinces
Chou dou fu (臭豆腐) — stinky tofu — is China's most controversial fermented food: firm tofu is submerged in a brine of fermented vegetables, shrimp, meat scraps, and aromatics for days to weeks. The brine inoculates the tofu with bacteria that produce strong-smelling volatile sulphur compounds. Fried until crispy outside, the inside becomes creamy. Served with sweet chili sauce and pickled vegetables.