What's the Difference Between Yidou and Fadou?

Yidou and Fadou are two popular Chinese snacks that have a unique charm and history. Both are made from soybeans, but they differ in their preparation methods, texture, and flavor profiles. Here's a detailed comparison of the two:

Yidou (Sesame Seed Paste Bean Curd)

Yidou, also known as Sesame Seed Paste Bean Curd, is a traditional Chinese snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made by grinding soybeans into a paste and then adding sesame seeds, sugar, and sometimes other flavorings. The result is a creamy, smooth, and richly flavored paste that is often used as a filling for mooncakes, dumplings, and other desserts.

Texture and Flavor

Yidou has a smooth and creamy texture, which is ideal for use in various recipes. The flavor is nutty and slightly sweet, with a rich, sesame seed taste that complements other ingredients well.

Usage

Yidou is commonly used in mooncakes, which are a traditional Chinese pastry filled with sweet or savory fillings, including yidou. It is also used in other desserts, such as sweet rice balls and sesame seed paste cookies.

Fadou (Sesame Seed Paste Bean Curd)

Fadou, also known as Sesame Seed Paste Bean Curd, is another popular Chinese snack made from soybeans. It is similar to yidou in that it is made by grinding soybeans into a paste and then adding sesame seeds. However, the texture and flavor of fadou are slightly different.

Texture and Flavor

Fadou has a more grainy and textured texture compared to yidou. The flavor is also nuttier and less sweet, with a more pronounced sesame seed taste.

Usage

Fadou is often used in savory dishes, such as stir-fries and dumplings. It is also a common ingredient in Chinese desserts, such as sesame seed paste mooncakes and sesame seed paste cookies.

In summary, while yidou and fadou are both made from soybeans and sesame seeds, they differ in their texture, flavor, and usage. Yidou is a smooth, creamy paste with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, often used in desserts. Fadou, on the other hand, has a grainy texture and a nuttier, less sweet flavor, making it more suitable for savory dishes and some desserts.