Zaru Tofu (Basket-drained tofu)
Zaru tofu from Karatsu, Saga—silky-smooth tofu with rich soybean flavor.

About Zaru Tofu (Basket-drained tofu)

Zaru tofu from Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, is a specialty developed by Kawashima Tofu Shop, a long-established business dating back to the Edo period. Founded during the Kansei era (1789–1801), the shop has a history of presenting tofu to the lord of the Karatsu domain. Its ninth-generation owner created zaru tofu while pursuing a method that brings out the soybeans’ natural flavor without rinsing the tofu in water. The result is tofu with a smooth, cheese-like texture and a rich taste, highly regarded both locally and across Japan.

Soybeans, the main ingredient, are highly nutritious and are also attracting attention as a health food. They are especially rich in protein, an important nutrient for maintaining muscles and organs. They also contain calcium, which helps strengthen bones, making them a suitable ingredient for growing children and older adults concerned about osteoporosis. In addition, soybeans contain dietary fiber and isoflavones, which help support gut health and hormonal balance.

Zaru tofu can be enjoyed on its own, or with soy sauce and condiments to bring out its flavor. Its smooth texture and rich taste also pair well with sake. Clean-tasting styles such as junmai and ginjo sake particularly complement the tofu’s savory flavor.

Across Saga Prefecture, many restaurants and farm shops serve zaru tofu, making it popular with visitors. At Tofu Ryori Kawashima in Karatsu City, freshly made zaru tofu is especially well regarded. When visiting Saga, try the local zaru tofu paired with sake.

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