(あつあ)

あつあげ
noun
thick fried tofu; deep-fried tofu block
1. thick fried tofu; deep-fried tofu block
Thick blocks of firm tofu that have been deep-fried until the outside is golden and crispy while the inside remains soft and white. Also called 生揚(なまあ)げ.
厚揚(あつあ)げを()いてしょうがじょうゆで()べる。
Grill thick fried tofu and eat it with ginger soy sauce.
厚揚(あつあ)げと野菜(やさい)煮物(にもの)(つく)る。
Make a simmered dish with thick fried tofu and vegetables.
厚揚(あつあ)げは(にく)()わりにもなる。
Thick fried tofu can also be used as a meat substitute.

WORD STRUCTURE:
(あつ)い (thick) + ()げ (deep-frying)

Literally "thick-fried" - referring to the thick cut of tofu before frying.

ALTERNATIVE NAME:
生揚(なまあ)げ (nama-age) - same product, different regional name

CONTRAST WITH 油揚(あぶらあ)げ:

  • 油揚(あぶらあ)げ - thin, hollow inside, used for pouches
  • 厚揚(あつあ)げ - thick, solid tofu inside, more substantial

TEXTURE:
The outside is crispy and golden brown, while the inside stays soft and white like regular tofu. This dual texture makes it versatile in cooking.

COMMON PREPARATIONS:

  • ()厚揚(あつあ)げ - grilled
  • 煮物(にもの) - simmered dishes
  • (いた)(もの) - stir-fries
  • おでん - oden hot pot

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

  • しょうがじょうゆ - ginger soy sauce
  • 大根(だいこん)おろし - grated daikon
  • ねぎ - green onions