It is derived from the native cooking styles of the Huangshan region in southern Anhui Province.
Anhui cuisine is known for its use of wild herbs, from both the land and the sea, and simple methods of preparation.
Anhui has ample uncultivated fields and forests, so the wild herbs used in the region's cuisine are readily available.
[1] According to Chinese legend, stinky tofu was created by Anhuinese scholar Wang Zhihe who sold his product in Beijing to make a living after failing the imperial examination.
Anhui is the home of hairy tofu where it is a popular snack.