Why the Texture of Tofu Matters

Whether it’s for miso soup, tofu dessert, or chilled tofu – the firmness of the tofu you’re using has a huge impact on how the dish comes out. Tofu is great because it holds many fantastic benefits for your body in its high protein. Because of this, tofu is often used as a meat alternative. Tofu is made from soybeans, water, and bean curd that acts as a coagulating agent. This coagulating agent creates a process similar to milk turning into cheese. In the past couple of years, tofu has risen in popularity in the US, and it’s easy to see why! However, ig you’re trying a tofu dish for the first time it is important that you know that the texture of your tofu is extremely important to the final product.

Silken Tofu

Silken Tofu – also called silk, soft, or Japanese tofu- has such a light, smooth texture that requires careful handling. This tofu is often packaged in a way that does not call for refrigeration. This soft tofu falls apart easily, but is perfect for smoothies, sauces, pastes, an egg substitute, desserts like puddings, salad dressings, etc.

Tara's Multicultural Table

Silken Tofu with Pine Nuts and Pickled Chiles and East Recipe for Silken Tofu with Pine Nuts and Pickled Chiles. Silken tofu is covered with a salty sauce and crisp pine nut pickled chile topping.

Regular Tofu

Regular tofu, also referred to as Chinese-style tofu or bean curd, is the most common texture you’ll find. While this type of tofu should still be handled carefully, it holds its shape well. This makes regular tofu a great substitute for recipes calling for eggs such as breakfast scrambles. Regular tofu additionally works great in miso soup and baked recipes.

Taste of Home

What Is Tofu? We’ve all heard of it, but what exactly is tofu? Read on to learn what this high-protein meat substitute is made of and how to cook it.

Medium-Firm Tofu

The more whey that is pressed from the tofu curd, the denser and chewier the tofu gets. Medium-firm tofu is great for curries, baking, searing, stews, and soups.

Firm and Extra-Firm Tofu

Firm and extra-firm tofu holds its shape very well, making it a better option for more vigorous cooking. Firm And extra-firm tofu cooks mostly the same way, therefore which one you should use for your meal comes down to which texture you prefer and which one is available to you. This texture of tofu is great for grilling, stir-frying, frying, and marinating.

Soft Tofu

Soft tofu holds its shape better than silken tofu, but has a more custard-like texture. The softer texture is also a good substitute for eggs, once again.