What's the deal with Tofu?

Don't say you don't like it if you haven't tried it! Tofu is a fabulous food and great source of protein, calcium and iron. It takes on the taste of whatever you cook it in and comes in a variety of different textures/firmness.

 Raw Tofu

What is it? Tofu (bean curd) is a product in the soy family made by the process of pressing soy milk curds into blocks. These blocks come in soft/silken and also firm.extra firm varieties. Depending on what type of recipe you are using it for, most will call for a specific type for optimal texture, firmness.

Tofu Prep: Tofu comes packaged in water, which must be removed by draining the excess water in order to firm up the tofu. Do this by cutting the tofu block into whatever size pieces you desire. Simply cover a plate with paper towels and place a single layer of the cut tofu on the surface. Cover with more paper towels. Place another plate directly on top of that layer in order to transfer some weight into the tofu and press that water out. Let drain for 30 minutes.

Crispy Tofu Sandwich

Raw Tofu Storage: Do not drain any tofu that you don't plan to use right away, rather store it in a sealed container with the water and refrigerate it. Replace the water daily- opened tofu will stay fresh up to four days. Unopened tofu should also be refrigerated. See package for 'fresh by' date.

Barbecued Tofu Veggie Skewers

Freezing Tofu: Freezing tofu will cause it to gain a chewier texture that some people would prefer in a food like chili. It also assists in allowing the tofu to absorb any marinades or seasoning you might be cooking with. Cut the tofu into desired shape/size and drain. Make sure to get as much water out as possible because any leftover water will actually cause ice pockets to form in the tofu, leaving it with empty holes when thawed. Store it in the freezer in plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Tofu will stay good in a freezer for 5-6 months. After just a few days however, the tofu will have that desired chewy texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

"Chicken" Fried Tofu

What can I use it in? I have had tofu in salads, on top of pizza, sandwiches, grilled with tomato basil and olive oil and as a substitute for ground beef in foods like tacos and chili. Grilled tofu is fantastic with veggies and pastas, as well as when served in wraps. You would never know it but tofu will show up in many dessert recipes I will post in the future, like a yummy peanut butter pie I am hoping to make for a friend.


Have you tried tofu? How did you use it and did you like it?