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Taho Filipino Dessert Recipe: A Delicious Filipino Dessert with Silken Tofu, Syrup, and Sago Pearls

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Taho is a comforting Filipino dessert made with silky tofu, sweet caramelized brown sugar syrup (arnibal), and chewy tapioca pearls. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients

2 cups unsweetened soy milk

1 teaspoon agar-agar powder (or 1 teaspoon gelatin for custard-like texture)

1/4 cup water

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup water (for syrup)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for syrup)

1/2 cup small tapioca pearls (white or brown)

3 cups water (for boiling sago pearls)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sago Pearls: Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Add the tapioca pearls and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once translucent, turn off the heat, cover, and let the pearls sit for another 15 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  2. Make the Arnibal Syrup: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 7-10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. Stir in vanilla extract if using, and remove from heat to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the Silken Tofu: In a small bowl, dissolve agar-agar powder in 1/4 cup of water. Heat the soy milk over medium-low heat, stirring to avoid boiling. Add the dissolved agar-agar and stir for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Pour into serving glasses or ramekins and cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for faster setting.
  4. Assemble the Taho: Once the tofu has set, spoon warm or room-temperature arnibal syrup over the tofu. Add a generous spoonful of sago pearls on top. Serve immediately while warm or gently reheat before serving.

Notes

If using store-bought silken tofu, gently warm it before adding syrup and sago pearls.

Adjust the sweetness of the arnibal syrup to your preference—add more or less sugar to taste.

For a vegan option, use soy milk and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

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