How 3,000 Pounds Of Tofu Are Handmade A Day | Big Business

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  • Опубліковано 26 вер 2024
  • Ota Tofu is America's oldest tofu shop. Out of his Portland, Oregon, store, owner Jason Ogata is making handcrafted tofu the traditional Japanese way.
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    How 3,000 Pounds Of Tofu Are Handmade A Day | Big Business

КОМЕНТАРІ • 3,4 тис.

  • @jenniferk9242
    @jenniferk9242 3 роки тому +8795

    That their landlord honored the lease and kept the building and all of their equipment waiting during internment really stood out to me. It would have been so easy for him to sell everything and collect rent from another tenant, like so many others did.

    • @SaretGnasoh
      @SaretGnasoh 3 роки тому +125

      yes, it really suprised me

    • @abdultawwab486
      @abdultawwab486 3 роки тому +164

      Exactly. Good man🙏

    • @MrBakedDaily
      @MrBakedDaily 3 роки тому +165

      He was lucky the owners wasn't hurting for money like alot of people was.

    • @Bencat1832
      @Bencat1832 3 роки тому +107

      I agree, with this covid, we had months of lockdown,many businesses close unable to pay rent. We in our own small way of help, forfeit months of pay from our tenant so they don't have to worry to much on essential need expenses for their family. If only we can all be considerate, the world is a centimeter good everyday.

    • @agastingoh
      @agastingoh 3 роки тому +5

      Bruh

  • @ernestrodriguez1465
    @ernestrodriguez1465 3 роки тому +3279

    Hearing the chef say he doesn't mind spending more, he's been doing business with Ota for 20 years and can't change it- made me really happy. I hope this guy gets the help he needs to stay in the game. He's doing a great job.👍

    • @fendysusanto876
      @fendysusanto876 3 роки тому +11

      Because chef make food from $20 ingredient and sell it at $200 minimum.

    • @raikaria3090
      @raikaria3090 3 роки тому +71

      He also said it's because of the quality and if he changed *his customers would notice*. AKA: He thinks no-one else can compete on quality.

  • @edwardwong654
    @edwardwong654 2 роки тому +510

    I support Jason, Ota, and the rich traditions of tofu making. Growing up I was not fond of tofu, but it is now a major food item for me as it is healthy, high in protein, and is plant-based. Good job Jason! We all support you!

    • @nightfalls5462
      @nightfalls5462 2 роки тому +6

      meat rules

    • @mazda_rt24-p
      @mazda_rt24-p 2 роки тому +5

      you eat it because you hate plants right

    • @dpellek74
      @dpellek74 Рік тому

      Because ur a soy boy beta b**ch. Thats why eddy. Soy produces estrogen u sub primal male.

    • @AshVXmc
      @AshVXmc Рік тому +7

      I despise the existence of tofu so i aim to eat as much of them as possinle

    • @gamingstuffpodcasts9763
      @gamingstuffpodcasts9763 Рік тому +2

      yeah I agree the taste of glue I mean soy bean is delicious and TOTALLY healthy. Replacing meat with glue I MEAN soy beans is very good.

  • @goldfishdoc1999
    @goldfishdoc1999 3 роки тому +8516

    respect for the landlord who honoured the contract

    • @joermnyc
      @joermnyc 3 роки тому +307

      That was sadly rare, and many who returned from those camps found their homes, businesses, and any property they couldn’t take with them or leave with someone were sold off to non-Asians. We did those people dirty, all because of racist thinking that their loyalty wasn’t with America solely because they were of Japanese decent.

    • @guleri7221
      @guleri7221 3 роки тому +261

      Now (probably deceased) Landlord is getting recognition. Many time, it takes time for Good deed to get recognised.

    • @shroomer3867
      @shroomer3867 3 роки тому +127

      @@guleri7221 If heaven exists that person is probably enjoying it.

    • @SaretGnasoh
      @SaretGnasoh 3 роки тому +10

      agree

    • @sakeenah_souls
      @sakeenah_souls 3 роки тому +7

      I agree 100%👍🏼

  • @DarthFurie
    @DarthFurie 3 роки тому +2671

    This looks like very physically intense labor, my back was hurting watching this. 72 hours of this a week?! I could never. Respect

    • @harukrentz435
      @harukrentz435 3 роки тому +36

      This is nothing compare to more traditional ones.

    • @oompaloompa5171
      @oompaloompa5171 3 роки тому +24

      Nothing compared to working in construction

    • @truehappiness4U
      @truehappiness4U 3 роки тому +285

      @@oompaloompa5171 you can’t compare jobs with other jobs, each job is different. It’s like comparing countries

    • @pataker7875
      @pataker7875 3 роки тому +134

      Nothing compared to the effort of people commenting on UA-cam

    • @lemonyfish3303
      @lemonyfish3303 3 роки тому +38

      @@pataker7875 ikr their fingers are just waiting to break from commenting

  • @adstellam944
    @adstellam944 2 роки тому +267

    I used to live a few blocks from Ota and people could just walk in with a bucket or some other kinds of containers and buy tofu directly. I'm not sure Mr. Ogata still does that, but it has been such a fixture in the neighborhood. Ota also donates unsold surplus to community organizations pretty much every day.
    Portland area is a study in contrast when it comes to tofu. Here's this 110-year-old shop doing everything the traditional way. Then 15 miles away in Tualatin there's a factory that manufacturers shelf-stable "tofu" in aseptic, vacuum packaging using automation and high tech that bear little resemblance to traditional tofu making. Ironically the latter is manufactured for Morinaga, a company based in Japan.

    • @Is_it_rwanda
      @Is_it_rwanda 11 місяців тому +1

      Morinaga chocolate is great, one of my favourites

  • @NoogahOogah
    @NoogahOogah 2 роки тому +2313

    5:36 - I like how he says he “inherited” the Ota’s equipment, even though he technically bought it from them. That choice of wording shows how much he respects the tradition of tofu making and the legacy of the company.

    • @Bailey110489
      @Bailey110489 2 роки тому +9

      How about his choice of wording his competitors just press buttons to make tofu? 🤮

    • @user-ww6gf1ly7m
      @user-ww6gf1ly7m 2 роки тому +103

      @@Bailey110489 because it is true

    • @Bailey110489
      @Bailey110489 2 роки тому +25

      @@user-ww6gf1ly7m you’re not a real master until you start respect your folks in the same industry, dissing others doesn’t make you better. Other manufactures don’t just press button to make tofu, definitely not, there is a lot more to that, hard work you can’t think of.

    • @user-ww6gf1ly7m
      @user-ww6gf1ly7m 2 роки тому +84

      @@Bailey110489 Manufacturers do have machine that do all the job. It isn't that hard to comprehend.

    • @Bailey110489
      @Bailey110489 2 роки тому +1

      @@user-ww6gf1ly7m hey stop insulting if you aren’t able to convince people, what I said about isn’t that hard to comprehend either.

  • @yoonjinstan5807
    @yoonjinstan5807 3 роки тому +3317

    "his biggest goal is making sure that tradition isn't being sacrificed by innovation" I hope his business will be tenfold more successful.

    • @mankind8807
      @mankind8807 2 роки тому +47

      Tradition vs innovation, he loses that fight every single time

    • @zephyrus3554
      @zephyrus3554 2 роки тому +39

      @@mankind8807 yeah exactly, why should tradition even be respected.. innovate and make things better, thats how it should be. his fault for choosing the hard way

    • @kawan3661
      @kawan3661 2 роки тому +13

      @@mankind8807 not in japan. and thats why I will always support the japaneses in the protection of their traditions. Even if the ones who do that are called "xenophobics" by the retards from multicultural dirtholes.

    • @Pepe-dq2ib
      @Pepe-dq2ib 2 роки тому +6

      @@zephyrus3554exactly, soon soy meat will be easier to make and we can ditch all meat made from animal cruelty.

    • @zephyrus3554
      @zephyrus3554 2 роки тому

      @@Pepe-dq2ib exactly my friend

  • @jessekauffman3336
    @jessekauffman3336 2 роки тому +121

    It’s amazing that this young man bought it before it closed to keep the tradition going and the family for passing on the process

  • @justiceleague9658
    @justiceleague9658 3 роки тому +1712

    Respect to the tofu maker! According to the tradition Chinese saying, making tofu is one of the three toughest and hardest jobs: Long working hours, exhausting and low profit.

    • @shroomer3867
      @shroomer3867 3 роки тому +27

      Maybe the low profit wouldn’t be that true anymore idk.

    • @jahidulhasan16
      @jahidulhasan16 3 роки тому +8

      And what are the other two of them?

    • @davehu8829
      @davehu8829 3 роки тому +99

      人家三苦,打铁 撑船 磨豆腐
      Other 2 are blacksmith and driving a boat with human power, usually with bamboo or wood pole.

    • @petesins4345
      @petesins4345 3 роки тому +57

      Tofu was traditionally made on giant heavy stone mills that some are fortunate enough to have donkeys or cows to move the mill but most have to move the giant tone mill themselves

    • @ivaerz4977
      @ivaerz4977 3 роки тому +3

      Every business ever

  • @00kidney
    @00kidney 3 роки тому +4876

    Tofu is a food I have always appreciated, but thanks to this video I now have a lot more respect for the people making it.

    • @91_gore
      @91_gore 3 роки тому +4

      Too bad we don't get here in India

    • @whosaidthat4299
      @whosaidthat4299 3 роки тому +1

      Now I am massively hungry for TOFU! :)

    • @anonymousbosch9035
      @anonymousbosch9035 3 роки тому +12

      @Miles Doyle what in the name of the gods does this have to do with tofu? And fanatics wonder why people think them insane... 🙄

    • @nathanielbarrassi4404
      @nathanielbarrassi4404 3 роки тому +2

      @Miles Doyle holy typewriter

    • @curtis9894
      @curtis9894 3 роки тому +1

      Who are you and why are you on every video I watch

  • @edwardwong654
    @edwardwong654 10 місяців тому +4

    I have eaten at Sweet Basil on Shattuck in Berkeley. I have so much respect for Ota and both the original and new owners.

  • @NeenasThaiKitchen
    @NeenasThaiKitchen 3 роки тому +773

    Thanks for sharing this video. As a former restaurant owner I used to buy all our tofu from a local manufacturer and our customers love it too. I hope business like this find a way to keep the tradition live. It takes so much dedication to making this. Fresh soy milk is the best!

    • @guleri7221
      @guleri7221 3 роки тому

      Why former?

    • @NeenasThaiKitchen
      @NeenasThaiKitchen 3 роки тому +2

      @@guleri7221 I used to own a Thai restaurant for 22 years

    • @guleri7221
      @guleri7221 3 роки тому +4

      @@NeenasThaiKitchen I meant to ask, have you sold the business or have shut it down?? A lot of business were affected by pandemic.

    • @knotts560
      @knotts560 3 роки тому

      @@guleri7221 idk

    • @NeenasThaiKitchen
      @NeenasThaiKitchen 3 роки тому +9

      @@guleri7221 fortunately the restaurant was sold before the pandemic

  • @randolphreyes9727
    @randolphreyes9727 3 роки тому +1245

    This is the reason why I don’t buy mass-produced tofu from big companies. I rather pay higher if it will make a small business survive. God Bless Ota Tofu!

    • @amitdhoka525
      @amitdhoka525 3 роки тому +44

      God bless people like you too!! We have to save small businesses

    • @veganfurretfanatic
      @veganfurretfanatic 3 роки тому +1

      I know! I wanna make my own. Where I live, there are not many tofu options

    • @patrickgrady7505
      @patrickgrady7505 3 роки тому +28

      There are low income families out there that unfortunately doesn't have the extra money to be able to support the small local businesses.

    • @liamneslind4182
      @liamneslind4182 3 роки тому +3

      Mass produced tofu is extremely GMO. Even more than corn syrup

    • @burgernthemomrailer
      @burgernthemomrailer 3 роки тому +15

      @@liamneslind4182 Ok, Implying?

  • @rizlagera756
    @rizlagera756 Рік тому +6

    I like how he sustained and maintained the production of the tofu itself, like in this generation people tend to focus more on new technology and innovation that forgot how these things was made for. Kudos to you Jason!

  • @huahualipo
    @huahualipo 3 роки тому +669

    In China, there is an old proverbial saying: "there are three hardships of life: boating, blacksmithing, tofu making". These jobs are considered hard, even by the working people of old who had it hard themselves: long hours, labor intensive, terrible working conditions. Anyone who enters these businesses by choice instead of necessity is inspiring.

    • @mailasun
      @mailasun 2 роки тому +21

      从来没听过这个谚语

    • @inyermouthbaybeh
      @inyermouthbaybeh 2 роки тому +7

      China is a plague in this world

    • @alsinbad3772
      @alsinbad3772 2 роки тому +31

      @@inyermouthbaybeh I love how your are too

    • @alsinbad3772
      @alsinbad3772 2 роки тому +7

      @@mailasun 确实, 可能是地方话吧,估计是我孤陋寡闻了,哈哈

    • @seieieor186
      @seieieor186 2 роки тому +18

      @@inyermouthbaybeh so mad for what

  • @a14a17k
    @a14a17k 3 роки тому +92

    To hear the landlord keeping the lease, and now buying the business to keep it open... Makes my heart happy

  • @victoriabarclay3556
    @victoriabarclay3556 2 роки тому +4

    As a small business owner, respect to Jason and the Ota family. People in food industry work so hard and with such passion. I work hard but I could never do food

  • @cullenangel
    @cullenangel 3 роки тому +397

    I live in Portland, I didn't know about this company, now I'm dying to go there and see in person this process, OTA tofu new costumers!

    • @rachelk4805
      @rachelk4805 3 роки тому +13

      Yeah, I am definitely buying this this week.

    • @EmilyEBoehm
      @EmilyEBoehm 3 роки тому +13

      You can buy right from their factory, also available at hMart!

    • @Pbness
      @Pbness 3 роки тому +4

      I live 30 minutes away from Portland, that's so cool! I hardly see anyone on the internet from Portland or Washington.

    • @hughmungus1885
      @hughmungus1885 2 роки тому +2

      @Sentinel5000 The description literally says that's its in Portland Oregon

    • @friktionrc
      @friktionrc 2 роки тому +1

      Actually looking to see if they have outlets or sell overseas….I’m Uk based, and though I’m not ‘into’ tofu…I am someone who loves the manufacturing process in what gives us (the consumer) the end product…that and the rich history of what is largely dying arts is what makes me seek businesses like this and give them my custom….even if it means they survive one more day as a result of my purchase combined with those of others, will make me happy
      🙏🙏😎

  • @royfablooo2810
    @royfablooo2810 2 роки тому +3917

    The fact he didn't renamed the shop at all and basically inherited it like it was from his family that gives me respect from him and I hope the Business last more years.

    • @botch3z
      @botch3z 2 роки тому +89

      It would be unwise from a business prospective to change the name. That history and name is likely the only reason he's stayed in business. No don't he bought the business out of the kindness of his heart, yet, it was kind of a no brainer to keep the name.

    • @Scythra
      @Scythra 2 роки тому +31

      @@botch3z yup. Basically this. Why would you change a name that is known for more than 60 years!

    • @user-bi8ko7kc6h
      @user-bi8ko7kc6h 2 роки тому +7

      Is the other way, he needs the name.

    • @kurtwang51
      @kurtwang51 2 роки тому

      @@botch3z because there are “entrepreneurs” that thinks it’s time to make something new under their name and tarnishes whatever they inherited because they wanted to be “progressive”

    • @jozen1986
      @jozen1986 2 роки тому +10

      The name was the selling point. Otherwise its just another tofu company.

  • @poisonmusic8354
    @poisonmusic8354 2 роки тому +6

    Love these videos. The art, the process, the hard work, history behind it. It's really fun to watch.

  • @stephanl4988
    @stephanl4988 3 роки тому +230

    Jason is such a good person, god bless his soul

    • @FairyFlores
      @FairyFlores 2 роки тому

      God bless his soul for making soy bean tofu when soy bean isn’t good for our body . Yay 💀 , you get a 💀 you get a 💀 we all get a 💀 💀

    • @edwardwong654
      @edwardwong654 2 роки тому +1

      Something about Jason, I just like him too.

  • @sahilbalani9177
    @sahilbalani9177 3 роки тому +174

    I am happy that they are sending tofu in buckets instead of plastic for restaurants

    • @insectbite1714
      @insectbite1714 3 роки тому +2

      WOW YOUR PROFILE PICTURE IS AMAZING YOU SPEAK THE TRUTH😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇

    • @calhoot3577
      @calhoot3577 2 роки тому +3

      Aren't buckets made of plastic

    • @NobodyKnows-pi1lk
      @NobodyKnows-pi1lk 2 роки тому

      @@calhoot3577 😐

    • @sahilbalani9177
      @sahilbalani9177 2 роки тому +6

      @@calhoot3577 atleast they are reusable for maybe 2-3 years or even more

    • @calhoot3577
      @calhoot3577 2 роки тому

      Tru @SAHIL BALANI

  • @jamesii1992
    @jamesii1992 2 роки тому +3

    The landlord honoring their lease and waited till the end of internment really got me. Big respect!

  • @EmilyEBoehm
    @EmilyEBoehm 3 роки тому +375

    Ota tofu is so delicious, fresh, and just a superb product. If you’re in Portland I encourage you to find some and try it!

    • @jonasalopecia1662
      @jonasalopecia1662 3 роки тому +5

      I wish i could try it. Really into cooking with tofu since i cut down to a much more plant based diet :) Sadly i'm from the other part of the world ^^

    • @BooBoo-qj2zj
      @BooBoo-qj2zj 2 роки тому +1

      What does it taste like? Also does it feel like cheese to eat? I have never had it but I'm not wasting money on something I don't know if i like or not 😂😂 does it taste like beans Also?

    • @Bluefoxx3
      @Bluefoxx3 2 роки тому +22

      @@BooBoo-qj2zj It's hard to describe what tofu tastes like if you never had soy products before. Tofu isn't one of those foods where you need an acquired taste for it. It's soft to eat and depending on how its prepared, can sometimes melt in your mouth.
      I'd recommend you try fried tofu in place of chicken for a salad and whatever dressing you like, the crust on fried tofu is just like biting into fried chicken without the skin or a batter.
      Tofu in general though is easier to eat than cheese as it doesn't have that thick consistency like when you eat a piece of cubed cheese. I guess the best way to put it is it cuts and eats like a cake if you try tofu in its basic formate i.e straight out of the packaging.

    • @BooBoo-qj2zj
      @BooBoo-qj2zj 2 роки тому +1

      @@Bluefoxx3 thank you very much! I actually understood That!! (Dont always happen for me)

    • @kanyebreast6072
      @kanyebreast6072 2 роки тому +1

      @@BooBoo-qj2zj It wouldn't cost that much to try it once. Don't be a cheapskate and just buy some

  • @AquaMarino
    @AquaMarino 3 роки тому +41

    Amazing person who honored their contract. Bless his generation's lineage right up now.

  • @teresaacevedo1731
    @teresaacevedo1731 2 роки тому +15

    I have so much respect for someone who prefers to keep traditions going with a business rather than seeing it close down. I’m not fond of tofu myself. But my grand kids love it so I do buy it to have in the house when they come to visit .

  • @dshaffer27
    @dshaffer27 3 роки тому +55

    Jason is a stand up guy. Glad to see him doing something he loves. Congrats Ogata.

  • @loraleitourtillottwiehr2473
    @loraleitourtillottwiehr2473 3 роки тому +55

    Ota makes the best tofu! Since I was a kid I've loved going to the factory to buy tofu and age by the slab. So glad the business has stayed open during the pandemic.

  • @purelyiced441
    @purelyiced441 2 роки тому +4

    all they need now is the ae86

  • @blotchilim1980
    @blotchilim1980 3 роки тому +53

    So glad to hear such a story ❤️
    1st, the landlord who respected the lease.
    2nd, ogata the new owner who continue to make handmade tofu.
    3rd, for the chefs who persisted in using ota tofu.
    I know there must be more downs than ups, but it's so heartwarming to see some positive things without forgetting the negatives too, so balanced ❤️ like tofu!

  • @ayskasafira3512
    @ayskasafira3512 3 роки тому +282

    here in Indonesia, it's easier to find (literally) handmade tofu than the machine-made one.

    • @unlink1649
      @unlink1649 3 роки тому +8

      this sounds like paradise

    • @alexndinh
      @alexndinh 3 роки тому +32

      same in Vietnam. Everything is availably handmade and taste fresh

    • @rafliarrasyd5753
      @rafliarrasyd5753 3 роки тому +3

      Wait you're Indonesian? Same

    • @radaddy7987
      @radaddy7987 3 роки тому +21

      @Ankur Kumar Paneer is a dairy product, not made from soy

    • @ff_1917
      @ff_1917 3 роки тому +19

      Sometimes the tofu seller told me not to cook the tofu immediately, because it's really fresh and going to break if I cook it immediately 😂

  • @remuvs
    @remuvs Рік тому +5

    It’s sweet that Jason is keeping the tradition of handmade tofu alive.

  • @yummyapplestroodle
    @yummyapplestroodle 2 роки тому +37

    I've made tofu myself and okara makes really good addition to meatballs! Mix okara with some minced meat and you get great meatballs and double the volume of them while having lots of good protein and nutrients! I don't want to cut out meat completely because I like it too much but want to lessen the amount of eating it and that is one great way to do it.

  • @jerryoconnor9133
    @jerryoconnor9133 3 роки тому +27

    This entire business and the rich history behind it makes me so happy. Respect to this guy.

  • @Virtus925
    @Virtus925 2 роки тому +3

    Too see a business like this finding a way to thrive is wonderful to see

  • @sarjulia
    @sarjulia 3 роки тому +606

    Fun fact: "ota" means "take" in Finnish... So those packages are telling customers to take some tofu 🥰 (in Finnish)

    • @mamamooslostsanity0439
      @mamamooslostsanity0439 3 роки тому +10

      Haha mä ajattelin tota kans

    • @Nietabs
      @Nietabs 3 роки тому +4

      Burger tofu 😋

    • @cherrkong
      @cherrkong 3 роки тому +14

      I often think sometimes Finnish sounds like japanese with a lot of combined short syllable

    • @mamamooslostsanity0439
      @mamamooslostsanity0439 3 роки тому +16

      @@cherrkong that’s true! For a native Finnish speaker learning Japanese is quite easy (pronouncing wise) because it’s actually quite similar

    • @dai6709
      @dai6709 3 роки тому +1

      @@mamamooslostsanity0439 fakiu man

  • @GoldenGod69
    @GoldenGod69 2 роки тому +70

    I was worried that his business is going to shut down but it really ended on a good note. Looks like he is well respected and supported in his community so he will be around for awhile.

  • @mida7777
    @mida7777 2 роки тому +8

    I love this for them and hope they continue to grow ❤️ god bless this family and that young man !

  • @lauralawson9218
    @lauralawson9218 3 роки тому +187

    Begin while others are procrastinating🤞
    Work while others are wishing👌
    Persist while others are quitting ✨✨

    • @raimamengha491
      @raimamengha491 3 роки тому

      people feel leaving their country is the best way to get a secured job or business opportunities, but no because they still have many jobless people in that country they are running to

    • @raimamengha491
      @raimamengha491 3 роки тому

      For me I lost my job 9 months ago, I'm surviving today with my own personal forex investment

    • @raimamengha491
      @raimamengha491 3 роки тому

      People's mentality have to change about coming to hyped named countries because life might be much more difficult, who knows

    • @raimamengha491
      @raimamengha491 3 роки тому

      I believe any where I am God helping us there must be a means of survival

    • @raimamengha491
      @raimamengha491 3 роки тому

      I make good income weekly from bitcoin mining and its been my reliable source for income

  • @straightbusta2609
    @straightbusta2609 3 роки тому +465

    I hope they have a Toyota AE86 as their delivery car else I'm going to be dissapointed

  • @lloydtorres3168
    @lloydtorres3168 Рік тому +1

    I REALLY ♥️ ANYTHING WHERE TRADITIONS ARE RESTORED!

  • @rosethesickoLIVE
    @rosethesickoLIVE 3 роки тому +223

    Its cool to see how this is made and the history behind it👍

    • @rosethesickoLIVE
      @rosethesickoLIVE 3 роки тому +1

      like and reply

    • @Cienfuegos.
      @Cienfuegos. 3 роки тому +2

      Lmaooo tofu soyboys

    • @hilltopgypsy
      @hilltopgypsy 3 роки тому +4

      @@Cienfuegos. Do you not like tofu? To me, being a vegetarian for the last 50 years, it's fantastic! It's literally the food of the Gods!
      BTW, I doubt that I would qualify as your idea of a SOYBOY as I'm 6'4" tall and weigh in excess of 330lbs! And I'm 65 years old. I've worked in construction. I've been a Union mason. I've worked for years farming while at the same time working as a professional musician. This sometimes meant farming 8 hours in the daytime, getting cleaned up, loading up my personal gear and the whole PA, driving to the gig, loading in all the gear, playing 4 sets, loading out all the above mentioned gear, driving home sometimes 75 miles, falling asleep in my recliner for a couple of hours, and getting up ready to go back to work farming by 7:00am for the next 10-12 hours. And doing this for over 11 years.
      Still ready to label me a SOYBOY?
      And almost 40 years ago I, along with my wife, built the house we've lived in ever since.
      But maybe I just don't understand your definition of a SOYBOY......

    • @anonymouseyes2031
      @anonymouseyes2031 3 роки тому +2

      @@hilltopgypsy He got speechless.

    • @BlahBlah-cn5qe
      @BlahBlah-cn5qe 3 роки тому +1

      @@hilltopgypsy he's just insecure.

  • @mattsanchez4893
    @mattsanchez4893 2 роки тому +10

    Kudos to Jason for keeping such a great tradition alive!

  • @sushantmanandhar1387
    @sushantmanandhar1387 2 роки тому +7

    5:55 Jason after 2 years of making tofu in America: *I am the tofu master*
    Jason after 20 years of making tofu in Japan: *I feel like I'm finally beginning to reach my potential*

  • @ladhkay
    @ladhkay 3 роки тому +24

    Nice community supporting each other, small business power, love it!

  • @wesleytownsend8214
    @wesleytownsend8214 3 роки тому +10

    Absolutely beautiful story and as some other commenters have stated; it is a miracle that the landlord kept their lease available and preserved their equipment.
    I truly hope this dark time in our history never repeats itself, that is why I feel strongly about the importance of studying our history, even when it hurts and is deeply embarrassing.
    I wish this excellent gentleman all the very best and I wish good health and happiness to himself and to his employees and family.
    Thank you for this touching piece of content!

  • @janethevegan9982
    @janethevegan9982 2 роки тому +2

    This is Disneyland to me. 💖

  • @SirManDudeGuy1
    @SirManDudeGuy1 3 роки тому +5

    I respect a boss that works along with his workers. A big salute to this good sir.

  • @kaistockman6443
    @kaistockman6443 3 роки тому +48

    I don’t like tofu at all but the history and how they make it is very cool. Sad that many other places had to close but glad their landlord kept everything for them.

    • @bruderschweigen6889
      @bruderschweigen6889 2 роки тому

      Yeah we were only at war we should have kept the tofu flowing that's important

  • @sophie8098
    @sophie8098 2 роки тому +3

    Tofu making process reminds of me the time when I was young. I used to make tofu at home, it was like a year affair within our family, all my family gathered and made tofu over weekend and ended up with having tofu with fried kimchi & korean bbq always. We don’t do this anymore after my grandma passed away so tofu was one of my grandma’s strategy to have a family gathering regularly. I didn’t know that before.

  • @scottread
    @scottread 2 роки тому +23

    Good on Jason for not only keeping the business alive, but also for growing it!

  • @whushaw
    @whushaw 3 роки тому +37

    Tofu is amazing because it goes with anything and absorbs the flavor of what you're cooking!

    • @whitemailprivilege2830
      @whitemailprivilege2830 3 роки тому +10

      So does cocaine

    • @uff26
      @uff26 3 роки тому

      -_-

    • @TheSongHolder
      @TheSongHolder 3 роки тому +4

      @@whitemailprivilege2830 I want to know what goes on your mind

    • @Cienfuegos.
      @Cienfuegos. 3 роки тому +1

      Tofu soyboy virgins lmaoo

    • @beansterfire82
      @beansterfire82 3 роки тому +6

      @@Cienfuegos. I don't eat tofu, but you do realize that tofu has been eaten for thousands of years by Asians. It's part of their culture, and non-vegan Chinese and Japanese people eat it all the time. -_-

  • @ericarose1979
    @ericarose1979 2 роки тому +1

    I didn't realize so much work goes into this tofu. A new appreciation for this food and the people who hand craft it. Car hop trays from amazon.

  • @ringozan
    @ringozan 3 роки тому +16

    I love how his customers chooses quality tofu over factory cheap tofu product

  • @PookyMo100
    @PookyMo100 3 роки тому +20

    Kudos for keeping the tradition :)

  • @XXxdjangox
    @XXxdjangox 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks, I just want some fried tofu right now.

  • @sxerosie
    @sxerosie 3 роки тому +20

    Respect to this guy for keeping the business going 🙌

  • @ryanhollis2670
    @ryanhollis2670 3 роки тому +38

    Some say that Takami is still delivering their Tofu to this day.

  • @jamiemason2003
    @jamiemason2003 11 місяців тому +1

    I'm so glad the landlord left the store intact and that Jason is doing everything the same way. That's how businesses should work. And the locals buying from him instead of going to big companies. Yes!

  • @peach3813
    @peach3813 3 роки тому +15

    Used to wonder for the longest time why my Japanese mom would only buy hand made tofu. It just tastes better

    • @KotaJMomo
      @KotaJMomo 2 роки тому

      Hey, I have a Japanese mom too!

  • @camiloguzman1801
    @camiloguzman1801 3 роки тому +8

    Thank you for this video was so nice.
    i'm from a poor country, with a single mom and very few money, and she many times feed me with arthesanal tofu, hand made soy milk, and cakes from the leftover from the soy. This we're Nice memories, thank you for bring them back to me.

    • @thecoffeemaker7444
      @thecoffeemaker7444 3 роки тому

      So heartwarming to hear that but the Philippines is not a poor country

    • @Horizon301.
      @Horizon301. 3 роки тому +1

      @@thecoffeemaker7444 i mean it is..

    • @thecoffeemaker7444
      @thecoffeemaker7444 3 роки тому

      @@Horizon301. no, you're just looking down on your country

    • @Horizon301.
      @Horizon301. 3 роки тому +1

      @@thecoffeemaker7444 it’s not my country. And yes it is poor, it’s an LEDC…

  • @wallacesouza2678
    @wallacesouza2678 2 роки тому +19

    I'VE BEEN SEEING POST EVERYWHERE ABOUT FOREX TRADING AND CRYPTO CURRENCY, A LOT OF PEOPLE KEEP SAYING THINGS ABOUT THIS TRADING PLATFORMS PLEASE CAN SOMEONE LINK ME TO SOMEBODY WHO CAN PUT ME THROUGH..?

    • @montserratherrero782
      @montserratherrero782 2 роки тому

      Trading with her is %100, she is legit and
      sure in trading unlike others.

    • @Simeonsaater
      @Simeonsaater 2 роки тому

      Wow l'm just shock someone mentioned
      expert Mrs Olivera Jane okhumalo, I thought
      I'm the only one trading with her, She helped
      me recover what i lost trying to trade my
      self.

    • @marinefernandez3166
      @marinefernandez3166 2 роки тому

      God bless the day i came across your
      number
      on UA-cam. You are God sent ma'am
      always
      remain thankful to you.

    • @carolineknudsen5306
      @carolineknudsen5306 2 роки тому

      @Anna Jensen Ohhh yeah I have her contact I have been trading with her also

    • @carolineknudsen5306
      @carolineknudsen5306 2 роки тому

      @Anna Jensen Give her a call, or sms direct

  • @AfraidMonsters
    @AfraidMonsters 3 роки тому +121

    I could eat tofu every day. Beans are my favourite food, but Tofu is AMAZING. As a vegan I’m glad you’re sharing this!!!

    • @insectbite1714
      @insectbite1714 3 роки тому +2

      Yes

    • @XVeganDaveGodFreeX
      @XVeganDaveGodFreeX 3 роки тому +2

      👍👍

    • @gordonlekfors2708
      @gordonlekfors2708 3 роки тому +2

      yehh I love it as well

    • @MrRichManGuy
      @MrRichManGuy 2 роки тому +4

      Why do you like it if i may ask?

    • @PossibleBat
      @PossibleBat 2 роки тому +12

      @@MrRichManGuy well, I’m not the person you asked the question to but I’m guessing either taste, texture, smell, versatility… why do people like ANY food? It’s a matter of taste and preference, some like it some don’t.

  • @queenjanee6290
    @queenjanee6290 2 роки тому +1

    I literally just prayed for a work ethic and passion like this man.

  • @gachatookthekids
    @gachatookthekids 3 роки тому +5

    This was such a heart-warming episode. All the best to Ota Tofu!

  • @macjack5978
    @macjack5978 3 роки тому +5

    Ota tofu is amazing! I've been eating there for years! God bless

  • @troublemaker4lyf
    @troublemaker4lyf 2 роки тому +2

    he is such a loyal person not sacrificing the tradition into innovation.

  • @PolarBearXx
    @PolarBearXx 2 роки тому +4

    Man I was 330 pounds 6’3 I’m currently 268…along with good plant based diet and morning walks fat burner from inno supps….this October is my second month November is my 3rd month ….I switched to plant based ate tofu cardio every morning and night good natural quality supplements…my ldl decreased badly my Hdl increased drastically blood pressure went down bad plaque in arteries,,,recently had blood work and everything is just green and no problem what so ever ….testosterone increased ….drank soymilk ate tofu just plant based it’s full of fiber so I legit go to the restroom 4 plus times a day I never did that my dark neck is gone skin s clear my stomach is smooth ….I’m sticking to plant based for life by the end of November I hope I’m 230 or less ….and yes I eat a lot no starving myself here

  • @azgardener79
    @azgardener79 3 роки тому +10

    I will gladly pay more for your brand of tofu knowing the care and attention you put into its production. Nice job!

  • @jennifermmlefaive2975
    @jennifermmlefaive2975 Рік тому

    I’m so excited to try this tofu next time I’m in Portland! Thank you for honoring the hand made tradition, it’s clearly made with love ! 🤍

  • @Wei.Akiona
    @Wei.Akiona 2 роки тому +22

    Honestly I’ve had some ota tofu and it’s taste is very much superior to the mass produced product, even in something like of Thai the tofu soaks up much more flavor and I love it. Whenever I try other tofu I’m like nahhh this is generic and pale. Ota tofu is just made right 💕

    • @KotaJMomo
      @KotaJMomo 2 роки тому

      Glad you get it 👍

  • @mrherusantoso
    @mrherusantoso 3 роки тому +24

    Do episodes on how tempe (and its many variants) is made in Java. Should be fun.

  • @KYjchan
    @KYjchan 2 роки тому +1

    Wonderful story, thank you Jason for keeping the business and practice alive!

  • @WeebClipper
    @WeebClipper 3 роки тому +5

    Just Respect for all of them

  • @nathanpeachs2704
    @nathanpeachs2704 3 роки тому +6

    you're a legend mate😄 I'll have to track down some of your tofu and give it a try.

  • @___beyondhorizon4664
    @___beyondhorizon4664 Рік тому

    The very soft tufu, I have a simple and quick recipe. Slice it into cubes, pan fry dice garlic with any oil, sometimes ibmix half olive oil+ sunflower seeds oil till golden brown. Tufu is with room temperature, drizzle the garlic oil over tufu, a splash of soya sauce, garnish with chop green onion 😋 I love it during summer

  • @Moontess
    @Moontess 3 роки тому +4

    Wow, good on him for honouring tradition and continuing the business.

  • @leila6735
    @leila6735 2 роки тому +4

    I really don't like tofu, but I have a huge newfound respect for this person's craft. I hope that they are doing well.

  • @ahotdj07
    @ahotdj07 2 роки тому +1

    I love tofu. If I lived in the Portland area, I would totally support Ota Tofu.

  • @Kakamg26
    @Kakamg26 3 роки тому +4

    I'm watching from Kanazawa city in Japan. Japanese make a cold salad with okara. Also there's a dish called mabodoufu. I love it 😊

  • @mars7357
    @mars7357 3 роки тому +11

    Great to see tradition being kept alive

  • @KiwiImpactSaint
    @KiwiImpactSaint 2 роки тому +1

    For those of you who are wondering, Tofu was invented by Liu An, the Prince of Huai’nan, one of my kins lived in 2nd century BC. Who was also a devout Daoist (Taoist) practitioner.
    It was invented out of filial piety, when his ageing, toothless mother wanted to eat soy beans, but couldn’t handle any chewing.

  • @multipurpose4676
    @multipurpose4676 3 роки тому +8

    I’m Japanese and when i used to live there I remember watching my family doing this
    Great to see it here in amaricia

  • @nomdeplume2213
    @nomdeplume2213 3 роки тому +24

    4:50 what an amazing landlord. Whomever they were/are i applaud their humanity, i wish more ppl were like them 👏👏👏
    Jasons also an amazing man for continuing the Ota families dream and hard work. Such a badass story. I live in Texas so unfortunately their tofu isn't available here but if it was id totally buy it to support them.

  • @TheNails3
    @TheNails3 2 роки тому +1

    Slicing that big block of tofu looks so satisfying!

  • @Aoudhubillahi
    @Aoudhubillahi 3 роки тому +4

    Great story. Awesome reminder to give the digestive system a rest from processing meats with tofu.

  • @PoisonedFirefly
    @PoisonedFirefly 3 роки тому +63

    Super fascinating. Pity I'm insanely allergic to soya.

    • @palashrathore6277
      @palashrathore6277 3 роки тому +12

      You can eat Indian Cottage Cheese(Paneer) which is even better than tofu in terms of taste and price.

    • @alecnolastname4362
      @alecnolastname4362 3 роки тому

      @@palashrathore6277 mmmm

    • @moonluna464
      @moonluna464 3 роки тому +10

      I'm a vegetarian that's allergic to eggs and lactose intolerant so I'm happy tofu Is a thing. Feel bad for you tho

    • @unlink1649
      @unlink1649 3 роки тому

      try the fermented stuff, not the raw soy

    • @alecnolastname4362
      @alecnolastname4362 3 роки тому

      @@unlink1649
      this is a good suggestion for gut health in general. fermented foods can promote good gut bacteria.
      NOT ALCOHOL

  • @riquehurturfeelings6562
    @riquehurturfeelings6562 2 роки тому +2

    Shoutout to the land lord for honoring the lease.

  • @dhoops616
    @dhoops616 3 роки тому +92

    What stuck out to me was the tariffs. Interesting how everyone called it racist and nationalist when the previous administration implemented them against China. But from what I heard in this video, and from other real life examples, those tariffs did exactly what the plan was. Encourage Americans to buy American. And to bolster small business like this one. I hope they continue to thrive!!

    • @sl3966
      @sl3966 3 роки тому +25

      I was wondering if anyone was going to mention this little tidbit they slipped in without crediting the previous administration. Just the years and actions and results that have hit a small business.

    • @acctsys
      @acctsys 3 роки тому +5

      The boon to this tofu business was a bigger bane to the farmers.
      Both tariffs and subsidies should be minimized as a general rule. Having to handle the CCP makes for a difficult exception though.

    • @Kyle17206
      @Kyle17206 2 роки тому +13

      @B W which, I don't know, encourages Americans to buy American? imagine that

    • @cherrywilson6267
      @cherrywilson6267 2 роки тому +6

      @B W it had EVERYTHING to do with buying American, He said it ALL THE TIME!

    • @haulingfuel4759
      @haulingfuel4759 2 роки тому +4

      Unfortunately our Chinese owned politicians have given up on promoting American goods. Back to shipping jobs overseas to be done for slave wages.

  • @mikmillerrealtor
    @mikmillerrealtor 3 роки тому +10

    This companies tofu will sky rocket in the years to come due to their original process and soy bean price increases!

  • @OfficialSautinHausa
    @OfficialSautinHausa 2 роки тому +2

    Personally I love Tofu. Literally anything with tofu in it I would eat it ! I tried making it at home and everything was fun untill when it comes to squeezing process damn ! That the hardest part ...

  • @Tiagotaf
    @Tiagotaf 3 роки тому +4

    I really admire these people who respect the tradition over anything else. Respect.

  • @cozywithsarkozy9206
    @cozywithsarkozy9206 3 роки тому +7

    Damn looks very nice. Hats off to this guy for keeping everything he does alive and the product genuine

  • @AI-hx3fx
    @AI-hx3fx 2 роки тому +1

    The Otas must be smiling from wherever they are, now that their legacy lives on thanks to Jason and his dedicated staff.

  • @yozakura16
    @yozakura16 3 роки тому +6

    Meat alternatives in terms of protein source. Tofu is life!

    • @wteverisgud
      @wteverisgud 3 роки тому

      Tofu is gross, meat is life

  • @matthewramroop
    @matthewramroop 2 роки тому +4

    This video reminded me how much I miss cooking with tofu. Trader Joe's has this super-firm tofu that I loved cooking with. I should get back to doing that.

    • @MontyGumby
      @MontyGumby 2 роки тому

      "super firm" tofu is made for Americans

    • @someguy2135
      @someguy2135 2 роки тому +1

      I eat the Trader Joe's sprouted super-firm tofu every night with their Ginger Miso broth and mushrooms. I add instant mashed potatoes and chopped green onions. It makes a great addition to my plant based diet.

    • @matthewramroop
      @matthewramroop 2 роки тому +1

      @@someguy2135 Gnarly 🤙

    • @someguy2135
      @someguy2135 2 роки тому

      @@matthewramroop Try this- Marinate that tofu in Trader Joe's Soyaki overnight, then coat it with Panko and air fry it. Amazing!

  • @thetrickynicky
    @thetrickynicky 2 роки тому

    so glad insider does videos of things like this

  • @raptormesh
    @raptormesh Рік тому +4

    What a lovely story. I live in Tokyo and my family eats 2 different kinds of tofu everyday at least. I also love Okara! It has great texture and soaks up flavor very readily.

  • @ballistic350
    @ballistic350 3 роки тому +6

    Wtf 230am Monday-sat damn bro make time for yourself also..... damn mad props