Tofu is also called 'white jade' because its color is as pure white as jade.
Tips
culture
The finest white jade in China is 羊脂白玉 (yángzhī báiyù — 'mutton-fat white jade') from Hetian (和田) in Xinjiang, prized for its creamy, slightly translucent texture.
memory
The 'tofu' nickname is a poetic touch you'll meet on Chinese menus — 翡翠白玉汤 ('jadeite-and-white-jade soup') is just spinach-and-tofu soup dressed up.
