Slice the bean curd into pieces about 8mm (⅜ in) thick and lay them on a cutting board. Lightly sprinkle salt over the bean curd, then turn the pieces over and sprinkle salt on the other side.

In a small bowl, mash the fermented bean curd with the brine to a smooth paste. Mix in the sugar, soy sauce and rice wine. Finely mince the garlic cloves. Cut the chillies into thin rings ...