Hiyayakko: Chilled Tofu That Beats the Heat

Hiyayakko Directions

• Prepare Quality Tofu
  Remove one block of firm tofu from packaging and drain well. Gently pat dry with paper towels to remove excess water. Using a sharp knife, cut into equal squares or rectangles approximately 2cm thick. Place each portion on individual small plates or in shallow bowls.
• Add Fresh Tomato Component
  Dice 1 medium ripe tomato into small 1/2-inch cubes. For best flavor, use fully ripened tomatoes at room temperature. The natural acidity and sweetness of fresh tomatoes creates a beautiful contrast with the mild tofu.
• Create Savory Topping Mixture
  Finely slice 10cm of green onion into thin rings. Combine with the diced tomato in a small bowl. The fresh green onion adds a pleasant sharpness that balances the dish.
• Dress With Complementary Flavors
  Drizzle each tofu portion with 1 tablespoon mentsuyu (diluted according to package instructions), 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon soy sauce. The combination of these three elements creates a perfectly balanced umami-rich sauce.
• Add Final Texture Elements
  Sprinkle tomato-green onion mixture over dressed tofu. Finish with 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds distributed evenly across both servings. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a small amount of grated fresh ginger makes an excellent addition.
• Serve Immediately
  Enjoy while tofu is still chilled for maximum refreshment. The contrast between the cool, silky tofu, fresh tomato, and savory toppings is most pronounced when served right away.