The word taho is a Filipino term used to describe a popular street food consisting of soft tofu, sago (tapioca pearls), and a sweet syrup. It's spelled as [ta-ho] in IPA phonetic transcription, with the first syllable 'ta' pronounced with a short vowel sound /æ/ and the second syllable 'ho' pronounced with a long vowel sound /oʊ/. This pronunciation of taho can be challenging for non-native speakers as it requires proper enunciation of both vowels in order to distinguish it from similar-sounding words.
Taho is a traditional Filipino delicacy and popular street food that consists of soft tofu, brown sugar syrup, and sago pearls. It is commonly consumed as a breakfast or mid-morning snack in the Philippines.
The base ingredient of taho is tofu, which is made by curdling fresh soy milk and then coagulating it into a solid, jelly-like substance. The tofu used in taho is typically very soft and silky in texture. The tofu is then cut into small, bite-sized cubes.
To enhance the flavor and sweetness, taho is served with a thick, caramel-like syrup made from brown sugar. This syrup is usually warm, giving the dish a comforting and cozy feel. Apart from the syrup, taho is often topped with tapioca pearls called sago. Sago pearls are translucent and chewy, adding a delightful texture to the dish.
Taho is commonly sold by street vendors who carry two large aluminum containers hanging from a pole balanced on their shoulders. One container holds the tofu, while the other contains the syrup and sago pearls. To serve, the vendor scoops some tofu into a small cup and then adds the desired amount of syrup and sago pearls on top.
This delicious and filling snack is a favorite among Filipinos, especially during the cooler months. Its soft and silky texture, combined with the sweet and rich flavors, make taho a delightful treat for many.
The word "taho" originates from the Philippines, specifically from the Tagalog language. The term "taho" comes from the Tagalog phrase "ta-hô" which means "to be soft". "Ta" means soft, while "ho" is an endearment particle used to show respect to someone older. The term "taho" primarily refers to a popular Filipino street food made of silken tofu, syrup, and tapioca pearls, often eaten as a sweet snack or breakfast.