Höfchen Restaurant: Indulging in Sichuan Sensations

Tucked away in the bustling city of Frankfurt lies a cherished haunt for us, that has dazzled our taste buds time and time again – Höfchen Restaurant (小院坝). We’ve hesitated to pen down our experiences here for quite some time, simply because the variety of delicious dishes on offer is utterly overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to begin. And we’re not alone in our admiration. Many locals from far and wide flock to this eatery, making reservations a necessity, especially on weekends and holidays.

Specializing in Sichuan cuisine, this restaurant offers fervor and flavors that take you right to the heart of China with each dish reflecting the richness and vibrancy of its origin. After countless visits, we’re eager to share some of our timeless favorites.

Our love for fresh fish led us straight to this exquisite dish – 鲜椒鱼 (Xian Jiao Yu, also known as Seabass in fresh chili sauce). It’s a beloved favorite among locals, especially in regions like Sichuan, Chongqing, and Guizhou, which are famous for their bold and fiery dishes.

As soon as the dish arrives, the aroma of Sichuan peppercorns tantalizes the senses, promising bold flavors. Floating atop the golden broth are abundant Sichuan peppercorns, imparting their signature zest. Be cautious though, their bold flavor can overwhelm. Best not to bite into them; they’re there for the flavor, after all. Beneath the fish lies a mix of vegetables—wool-ear mushrooms, potato slices, fermented tofu slices, and fresh bean sprouts—each enhancing the overall flavor and freshness.

The fish itself is impeccably fresh and tender, to the point where picking it up in one piece becomes quite an endeavor. It’s served whole in boneless pre-cut pieces, with head and tail included, but meticulously prepared to remove scales, innards, and the black membrane. Seabass is known for its naturally firm tender flesh and larger bones, making it easy to savor without worrying about pesky bones. Marinated with cornstarch and egg whites, the fish is incredibly succulent and smooth, with a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. Slow-cooked over low heat with an array of Sichuan spices—numbing Sichuan pepper, star anise, cloves, scallions, fiery fresh chilis, ginger, and garlic — each piece bursts with flavors, leaving an aromatic, spicy and refreshing sensation that lingers from head to toe.

Prepare for an explosion of flavors in this luscious, bold, and spicy dish – 豆花牛肉 (Dou Hua Niu Rou, also known as Beef with Tofu). It’s served steaming hot, with the sauce still enticingly sizzling in the pot, filling the air with tantalizing aroma of the spicy chili and savory beef.

Topped with a garnish of peanuts and scallions, it adds a hint of nuttiness and freshness to balance the bold flavors.

The secret to this dish lies in the quality of the beef and tofu, as well as the precise cooking time. The beef, thinly sliced and quickly stir-fried, retains its moisture and tenderness, while the tofu absorbs the delicious flavors of the beef broth.

The result is the tender beef that barely needs chewing, and tofu that, as soft as velvety egg custard, practically dissolves on the tongue. The luscious sauce adds the finishing touch. Seasoned with traditional Sichuan spices, it has a bold spicy profile reminiscent of Sichuan hotpot. The juicy beef, accompanied by silky tofu, richly coated in savory thick sauce, makes for a mouthwatering combination of vibrant flavors and textures characteristic of Sichuan cuisine!

A ticket to adventure through the heart of Sichuan cuisine – Spicy Chicken or 辣子鸡 (làzǐ jī), known for its bold flavors, fiery kick, and irresistible aroma. It features golden chicken nuggets, carefully fried to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior. It has a robust texture that’s invigorating to eat. Stir-fried with dried red chilis, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic and ginger, each piece is infused with rich flavor.

The classic seasoning lays a fragrant and tantalizing base for this dish, while the fried peanuts add a nutty flavor, deftly balancing the fiery spices. Despite the daunting red of the dry chilis, the chicken is not overwhelmingly spicy. Along with various Sichuan spices, including the tongue-tingling Sichuan peppercorn, each morsel vitalizes. It’s numbing and appetizingly spicy!

吊锅老豆腐 (diào guō lǎo dòufu), translated as “Hanging Pot Stewed Tofu”, is a traditional Sichuan dish. It features fermented tofu, simmered together with a little pork and a variety of vegetables like peppers, mushrooms and green onions. The dry chili lends a bold spiciness, while the fragrant Doubanjiang (fermented bean paste) and soy sauce infuse the broth with depth and richness. The tofu, slightly smoky, becomes very soft and flavorful, after absorbing the essence of the broth. It’s a hearty dish that leaves a lingering warmth in your mouth and stomach.

This dish is usually prepared with meat, but you can easily ask the kitchen for a vegetarian version.

红糖糍粑 (Hong Tang Ci Ba), an adored Chinese sweet snack, is made from glutinous rice flour and coated with the rich, caramel-like flavor of melted brown sugar. The grilled sticky rice cake is slightly golden, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The sticky chewy texture perfectly complements the indulgent sweetness of the brown sugar.  

In Chinese tradition, making and enjoying these treats is a time-honored custom, often practiced during festivals like the Lunar New Year as a symbol of prosperity and happiness. Whether enjoyed during festive occasions with family or paired with a cup of hot tea for a cozy afternoon with besties, this delicate sweet delight never fails to bring a touch of warmth to life’s moments, reminding us to cherish the simple pleasures that nourish the soul.

Sichuan is a land blessed with an abundance of fresh ingredients, for its fertile land and diverse climate. Drawing on centuries of culinary heritage and enriched by cultural exchanges along the ancient Silk Road, this region has birthed a diverse array of flavorful dishes that captivate food lovers near and far.

Today’s glimpse only scratches the surface of Sichuan’s culinary treasures at Höfchen! If you’re up for more dynamic Sichuan flavor experiences, keep an eye out for more delectable dishes in our upcoming posts!