Taho (Sweet Silken Tofu and Tapioca Pearls)

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Make the arnibal syrup: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, water and vanilla over high heat; bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until thick and syrupy, about 3 minutes. Set aside to cool until warm.

2. Step 2

   Meanwhile, if using dry tapioca pearls, fill a medium saucepan with 2 cups water and bring to a boil. Add the tapioca pearls, stir, and when the water returns to a boil adjust the heat so it maintains a lively simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25 minutes, until the pearls are plumped and mostly translucent (with only a few small opaque centers). Turn off heat and let tapioca pearls stand in the liquid until completely translucent and chewy, about 25 minutes more.

3. Step 3

   For both freshly cooked and store-bought pearls, drain and rinse under cold water, then stir into the arnibal syrup. (The pearls and arnibal can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Before serving, gently warm the mixture until hot but not boiling.)

4. Step 4

   Place the drained tofu block in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely with plastic wrap and microwave until heated through and warm to the touch, 30 to 60 seconds.

5. Step 5

   Using a tablespoon measuring spoon, scoop a few spoonfuls of tofu from the block into 2 tall (12-ounce) dessert glasses for sharing, or divide between 4 smaller dessert glasses. Top each with a couple spoonfuls of arnibal, then repeat, alternating tofu and arnibal a couple more times and ending with a spoonful of arnibal on top. Serve immediately.