One of the things I have really learnt to appreciate in Japan is tofu. Not the spongy stuff you would chuck in a stir-fry, but chilled soft tofu, dressed to perfection and topped off with spring onions or fresh ginger and bonito flakes. Creamy and smooth like firm panna cotta , this is a popular side dish in almost all Japanese bars and restaurants. Once you’ve tasted it, it’s not hard to understand why.

Ingredients for one block of tofu:

1 block of soft tofu (300g, see photo)

2 tbsp soy sauce

a generous splash of sesame oil

plenty of ground cayenne pepper

the green part of 1 small spring onion, finely sliced

Good quality soft tofu is essential. This Yakko tofu is very good.

• Drain the tofu, then carefully turn it out on a plate.
• Mix the ingredients for the dressing and pour it over the tofu.
• Top off with spring onions and you’re done. Easiest side dish ever.