Deep-fried tofu is a traditional delicacy known as aburaage. Tofu is usually fried twice to create a pocket in the middle, so when the piece is cut, it looks similar to pita bread. With a mild flavor, soft and chewy texture, and an incredible ability to absorb other ingredients, aburaage is often incorporated into various Japanese dishes.

It is usually rinsed or boiled in water and can be eaten plain, stuffed with sushi rice or fermented soybeans, used as a topping in miso soup, noodle soups, or various Japanese donburi dishes. Deep-fried tofu is an ancient Japanese ingredient, first mentioned in the 18th century, but today it is mostly produced in factories and available at many Asian and Japanese supermarkets.