FAQs
Firm and extra-firm tofu are most commonly used in Western recipes, as the mostly solid texture is easy to cut, easy to fry, easy to grill and easy to eat.
Which is the best tofu to use? ›
In general, I find that firm and extra-firm tofu are the most useful because they're versatile. They hit the tofu texture sweet spot—soft enough to absorb flavor but hardy enough to be cooked without risk of falling apart.
How do I know which tofu to buy? ›
How to choose the right tofu:
- Soft Tofu: Soft tofu is not pressed, but made using a thicker coagulant. ...
- Medium Tofu: Medium-firm tofu has a rougher texture than soft—curds are visible—but will still crack with handling. ...
- Firm Tofu: The most popular firmness for tofu beginners!
Extra-firm tofu has less water than firm tofu, which you notice in the difference in texture. The culinary possibilities of firm and extra-firm are almost the same, but extra-firm tofu doesn't absorb marinades as well. On the other hand, extra-firm is easier to pan-fry, stir-fry or deep-fry.
What is the healthiest tofu to eat? ›
Silken tofu contains only about half the calories and fat, while firm tofu contains over twice the protein. The reason for this is water content. Silken tofu contains the most water, while firm tofu is drier and more dense.
What is the best tofu for beginners? ›
Firm tofu: This tofu absorbs flavors well and can be stir-fried and pan-fried, and is also great crumbled and used in tofu scrambles. Extra-firm tofu: Consider extra-firm tofu the all-purpose tofu that holds its shape well and is excellent for slicing and cubing.
What kind of tofu do Chinese restaurants use? ›
White in colour and tender to touch, soft tofu (yun dou fu) contains the highest water content of all tofu types and is widely used in Cantonese and other southern Chinese cuisines. It's similar to Japanese silken tofu, but while very soft it has a bit more “body” to it, making it slightly easier to handle and cut.
What tofu to buy for stir-fry? ›
For tofu stir-fries, buy extra-firm tofu (or if you can't find that, buy firm tofu). Grace Young, wok guru and author of Stir-Frying to the Sky's Edge, says that for the best texture, “You want to remove as much liquid as possible before you stir-fry, so start with extra-firm.
How do I determine what firmness of tofu to use? ›
You can often find plain tofu labeled by how firm it is (medium, firm, extra firm, etc.).
- Soft: Soft tofu has a texture like yogurt or pudding, and works well in soups and served raw.
- Medium: Medium firm tofu holds up, but is porous enough to absorb flavors and sauces.
Softer tofu has higher water content and fewer calories, carbs, protein, and fat.
Contains antinutrients
Like most plant foods, tofu contains several antinutrients. These compounds are naturally found in plant foods and lower your body's ability to absorb nutrients from food ( 6 ).
Is tofu better for you than eggs? ›
In case you're wondering which is healthier, eggs or tofu, the match-up is surprisingly close. If you compare them per serving (1 egg to a 3.5-ounce serving of tofu), the tofu has a similar amount of calories and slightly more protein. Here's how they stack up: Calories: egg = 78 | tofu = 70.
Is it okay to eat tofu every day? ›
Similarly, the American Cancer Society sees no dangers from eating soy. "For the vast majority of people, it should be reasonable to incorporate tofu in their daily diet without any issues," Sun said.
What is the difference in tofu types? ›
The main difference between each type of tofu is the amount it has been pressed – Silken Tofu has the lowest protein content (and highest water content), while Super Firm has the highest. Each variety of tofu has a different texture, and thus is best used in different types of recipes.
What kind of tofu is best for meat replacement? ›
* I highly recommend using Super Firm Tofu as it doesn't need pressing. However, you can use Extra Firm as well, just make sure you press it for at least 30 minutes.
Which tofu is best in taste? ›
In India, Desi Treat produces the most delicious tofu! They put a lot of effort into making it taste real, which makes it unique. You may use their tofu in all sorts of cooking due to its firmness. Moreover, Desi Treat's tofu is a great option whether you're a plant-based food enthusiast or just getting started.
