Cold Marinated Indian Aster (Ma Lan Tou) with Spiced Tofu

Why people make this dish

This simple cold-dressed vegetable has roots in the Jiangnan region of China, where cooks have long gathered the tender young shoots of Indian aster (ma lan tou) in spring and early autumn. The herb is prized not just for its clean, slightly bitter-fresh flavor, but for its impressive nutritional profile — its calcium, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C content rival or exceed better-known greens like spinach and citrus fruit. Tossed with savory five-spice pressed tofu and finished with sesame oil, it makes a refreshing side dish that feels light yet satisfying. Indian aster is available at Chinese or Asian grocers, or online.