Nutty Persimmon and Tofu Salad (Kaki Tofu Salad)

If you’re looking for a simple yet unique Japanese-style fall salad, this Persimmon and Tofu Salad brings together the nutty aroma of sesame and the natural sweetness of seasonal persimmons. It’s a refreshing side dish that celebrates fall flavors with wholesome ingredients and minimal effort.

This salad combines creamy tofu, juicy persimmon slices, and a nutty sesame dressing for a light yet satisfying bite. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a healthy side dish, or a vegan-friendly addition to your Japanese meal.

Tips and Variations

Add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or miso for extra umami.
Top with toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
Try using silken tofu for a creamier texture.
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish, rice dishes, or Japanese miso soup.

RECIPE

Servings: 2-3

Time: 10 min (+pressing tofu for 30 min)

Ingredients:

1 pack tofu
1 pc fuyu persimmon
2 tbsp ground sesame seeds
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp soy sauce

Instructions:

Press the tofu:
Wrap the tofu in paper towels and place a small weight (like a plate or can) on top.
Let it sit for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Slice the persimmon:
While the tofu is pressing, peel and slice the persimmon into bite-sized pieces.
Crumble the tofu:
Unwrap the tofu and crumble it into a bowl using your hands until it reaches a slightly coarse texture.
Make the sesame dressing:
Add ground sesame seeds, sugar, and soy sauce to the crumbled tofu.
Mix gently to combine.
Combine and serve:
Add the persimmon slices and toss lightly.
Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes before serving for a refreshing texture.

My Kitchen Tool:

**Sesame Mortar Bowl**

Motoshige mortar is a beautiful sesame mortar bowl

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Inspiration from Shiraae, Japanese Tofu Salad

This salad is inspired by a classic Japanese dish, Shiraae. It’s a tofu-based salad that celebrates simplicity and balance. The star of this dish is tofu which serves as the nutritious base. And the dressing consists of ground sesame seeds, soy sauce and sugar, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.

By introducing ripe persimmons into the mix, it adds a fruity note, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

About Persimmons:

Persimmons are delicious and versatile fruits known for their sweet and rich flavor. There are various varieties of persimmons, each with its unique taste and texture. These fruits are not only a flavorful addition to many dishes but also offer a range of health benefits.

Persimmons are generally in season during the fall months, from late September to December, depending on the variety and location. The peak season may vary in different regions, but you can typically find them in grocery stores and farmer's markets during the autumn months.

Types of Persimmons:

Fuyu Persimmons:
These are squat and round, resembling a tomato.
Fuyu persimmons are sweet and can be eaten while still firm.
They are great for slicing and adding to salads or enjoying as a crunchy snack.
Hachiya Persimmons:
These are acorn-shaped and need to be fully ripe before consuming.
When ripe, they have a custard-like consistency and a sweet, honey-like flavor.

They are typically harvested when they have reached their full color and are slightly soft to the touch. The timing can vary based on the variety. Fuyu persimmons, for example, can be picked while still firm, while Hachiya persimmons need to be soft and fully ripe.