• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Recipes by Nora
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • About
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Desserts

    How to Make Taho

    Published: Mar 24, 2022 · Modified: Mar 24, 2022 by Nora Rey · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

    12 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email
    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

    Taho consists of layers of warm, custard-like tofu, sago pearls, and simple syrup. It is one of the best, if not the best, street foods in the Philippines.

    Like Turon (Banana Spring Rolls), taho is loved by many Filipinos. It's delicious and easy to make with just 4 ingredients!

    Taho served in glasses.
    Jump to:
    • What makes a good taho
    • Ingredients you'll need
    • How to make this recipe
    • How to serve
    • How to store and reheat
    • Frequently asked questions
    • More about taho
    • Watch how I make it here
    • Other dessert recipes you may like
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    What makes a good taho

    To make a good taho, you'll need a thick brown sugar syrup with a deep caramel flavor.

    The tofu must have a custardy texture. Sago pearls should be chewy and not clumped together. 

    Ingredients you'll need

    Assorted ingredients for taho (tofu with sago and brown sugar syrup) in individual containers.

    Notes and substitutions

    • Silken tofu: It is coagulated soy milk made from soybeans. Its texture is delicate, smooth, and custardy. Choose the soft silken tofu variety or one with just "silken tofu" on the label.
    • Sago: You can also use tapioca pearls which are cooked the same way and also used in Halo-Halo. Sago is from tropical palm trees while tapioca is from cassava plants. Choose the small, white variety. After cooking, it roughly triples in volume.
    Packages of tapioca pearls and small, dried cassava balls or sago pearls.
    • Dark brown sugar: Because it contains more molasses, the caramel flavor is more pronounced. Light brown sugar can be used as a substitute.

    How to make this recipe

    Make the brown sugar syrup or arnibal

    (1)In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar and 1 cup of water. Stir to dissolve the sugar.

    Pouring water in the saucepan with brown sugar.

    (2)Over medium-high heat, boil the mixture for 12 to 15 minutes to develop the caramel flavor and slightly thicken the syrup. Turn off the heat and add in the vanilla extract.

    PRO TIP: You can also use pandan leaves in place of vanilla for a wonderful aroma.

    Stirring the bubbling brown sugar mixture in the saucepan.

    (3)Allow it to cool for a few minutes.

    Pouring the brown sugar syrup in the saucepan into a small bowl.

    Cook the sago pearls

    (4)Heat 6 cups of water in a saucepan over medium-high heat. When it boils, add the sago pearls.

    If you add them too soon, they will disintegrate. (5)Stir right away to prevent them from sticking together.

    Sago pearls in a small bowl over the saucepan with boiling water. Mixing the sago pearls and water in the saucepan with a slotted spoon.

    (6)Cover and lower the heat to medium. Simmer for about 20 minutes until translucent.

    (7)Drain and rinse under cold water to remove residual starch.

    Putting the lid on the saucepan. Cooked translucent sago pearls in a strainer.

    (8)Add in about 2 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup to prevent them from clumping together.

    Mixing the sago pearls with brown sugar syrup in the mason jar.

    Assemble

    (9)Drain any excess water from the tofu. Warm in a steamer or in a microwave for about a minute, if desired.

    (10)Scoop out thin slices and portion into cups or bowls.

    Scooping thin slices of silken tofu with a spoon. Layering thin slices of silken tofu in a glass.

    (11)Add the sago or tapioca pearls. (12)Pour the brown sugar syrup over it.

    Adding sago pearls on top of the silken tofu slices in a glass. Pouring brown sugar syrup over the silken tofu and sago pearls in a glass.

    How to serve

    Taho can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature. Drink it straight from the cup, stir it with a spoon, or use a straw to sip it.

    Spooning taho from a glass.

    How to store and reheat

    Taho is best eaten right away for the best flavor and texture. If you must save it for later, refrigerate and consume within a day or two.

    Refrigerate the ingredients separately and assemble them right before serving. You can serve it cold or quickly reheat it in the microwave.

    Frequently asked questions

    How is taho sold?

    In the Philippines, taho is sold for breakfast or merienda (snack) by vendors peddling around town. With bamboo shafts over their shoulders, they carry the ingredients in large aluminum buckets.

    Can you freeze taho?

    It is best to eat taho right away. Freezing will change the texture of the silken tofu and sago pearls.

    What are the benefits of eating taho?

    Tofu is a good source of calcium, protein, and lowers cholesterol. Tapioca pearls are good for you because they are fiber-rich. However, taho is loaded with sugar. As with anything, moderation is key.

    More about taho

    Here are more frequently asked questions about taho (silken tofu with sago and brown sugar syrup) including extra tips, troubleshooting, and other information.

    Watch how I make it here

    Other dessert recipes you may like

    • Cheesecake Brownies from Brownie Mix
    • Brookie Bars from Brownie Mix
    • Oreo Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • Peanut Butter Brownies From Brownie Mix
    Phone showing how to tag me on Instagram.

    Did you make this recipe? I would love to know! Your feedback helps me make better recipes.  Please rate, review, or comment below. Questions about this recipe are welcome, too!

    Let's connect on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube. Be sure to tag me when you try any of my recipes @recipesbynora!

    📖 Recipe

    Taho in a cup

    Taho (Tofu with Sago and Syrup)

    Taho consists of layers of warm, custard-like tofu, sago pearls, and simple syrup. This popular street food is loved by many Filipinos.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Breakfast, Dessert
    Cuisine: Asian, Filipino
    Diet: Gluten Free
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 35 minutes
    Total Time: 40 minutes
    Servings: 4 servings
    Calories: 379kcal
    Author: Nora Rey
    Cost: $3-$4

    Equipment

    • Saucepan or pot
    • Strainer

    Ingredients

    • 1 (14-ounce) package silken tofu or soft silken tofu
    • 1½ cups dark brown sugar sub: light brown sugar
    • ½ cup white sago or tapioca pearls
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    US Customary - Metric

    Instructions

    • In a saucepan over medium-high heat, boil the brown sugar and 1 cup of water for 12 to 15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
    • Turn off the heat and add in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
    • Heat 6 cups of water in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
    • When it boils, add the sago and stir right away to prevent them from sticking together.
    • Cover and lower the heat to medium. Simmer for about 20 minutes until translucent.
    • Drain and rinse under cold water to remove residual starch.
    • Add in about 2 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup to prevent them from clumping together.
    • Drain any excess water from the tofu. Warm in a steamer or in a microwave for about a minute, if desired.
    • Scoop out thin slices and portion into cups or bowls.
    • Add the sago and pour the brown sugar syrup over it.

    Video

    Notes

    To serve: You can taho warm, cold, or at room temperature. Drink it straight from the cup, stir it with a spoon, or use a straw to sip it.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 379kcalCarbohydrates: 96gProtein: 1gFat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 49mgPotassium: 112mgFiber: 1gSugar: 80gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 69mgIron: 1mg
    Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @recipesbynora or tag #RecipesByNora!
    « Kare Kare with Beef Shank (in Peanut Sauce)
    Birthday Brownies From Brownie Mix »
    12 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Bim

      September 15, 2021 at 7:28 pm

      At first I thought it is hard to make taho at home. From this recipe, it looks like it is easy to make. This is healthy. Thank you Nora.

      Reply

    Thanks for coming! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Nora smiling at you

    Hi, I'm Nora! Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Grilled Pork Belly
    • Beef Stir Fry with Onions & Peppers
    • Mackerel in Olive Oil
    • Beef Caldereta
    • Buko Pandan Salad
    • Kamayan Feast

    Seasonal Desserts

    • Nutty Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • S'mores Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • Birthday Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • Palitaw (Sweet Rice Cakes)
    • Chocolate Shard Cake

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Accessibility Statement
    • Cookie Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Image Use & Copyright
    • Privacy Policy

    Contact

    • Contact

    Copyright © 2022 RECIPES BY NORA

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    12 shares