How to Choose the Best Tofu

Your Guide to buying the best Tofu

Overview

Tofu is a versatile and nutritious plant-based protein source that is becoming increasingly popular amongst people of all diets and lifestyles. This buying guide will provide you with key information on what to look for when purchasing tofu, how to store and prepare it, and how to incorporate it in your meals. You will also learn about the various types of tofu available and the health benefits associated with eating it. By the end of this guide, you should be well-equipped to make informed decisions when selecting the best tofu for your diet and lifestyle.

Key features

  1. Type: The type of tofu will determine its texture and how it should be used. Tofu is available in soft, medium, firm, extra-firm, and super-firm varieties. Choose the type of tofu that best suits your recipe and cooking method.
  2. Organic: Tofu can be organic or non-organic. Organic tofu is made without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial ingredients.
  3. Flavor: Flavorful tofus can be found in a variety of flavors, such as teriyaki, garlic, and spicy. Look for flavored tofu that will best complement the dish you are preparing.
  4. Texture: Tofu can be smooth or firm, depending on the variety. Soft tofu is best used in sauces and desserts, while firm tofu is best used in stir-fries and other dishes that require a bit of texture.
  5. Packaging: Tofu is usually sold in packages, with a range of sizes available. Choose the right size package for the amount of tofu you will need for your recipe.
  6. Storage: Unopened tofu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, and opened tofu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Frozen tofu can be stored for up to six months.

See the most popular Tofu on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • High Protein - Tofu is a great source of high-quality plant-based protein, providing all the essential amino acids.
  • Low-Calorie - One serving of tofu provides only 94 calories but contains a high concentration of vitamins and minerals.
  • Versatile - Tofu can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to soups to desserts, and can be substituted for other proteins.
  • Low-Cost - Tofu is an affordable and readily available source of plant protein.
  • Healthy Fats - Tofu is a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids.

Cons

  • Unflavored: Tofu has a subtle, slightly nutty taste on its own, which some people prefer and some people find underwhelming.
  • Texture: Tofu can be quite soft and delicate, and needs to be handled delicately; it can easily be mashed or broken.
  • Requires Marinating: In order to add more flavor, Tofu often needs to be marinated prior to cooking.
  • Limited Use-Cases: Tofu is not suitable for all types of cooking and some dishes may require substitutions.
  • High in Sodium: Many pre-packaged tofu products contain a large amount of sodium, which can be unhealthy for some individuals.

Best alternatives

  1. Tempeh - fermented soybean cake with a nutty, mushroom-like flavor.
  2. Seitan - a protein-rich food made from wheat gluten.
  3. Hemp Tofu - a vegan alternative made from hemp flour, soybeans, and water.
  4. Jackfruit - a tropical fruit with a texture similar to pulled pork.
  5. Lentils - high in protein and fiber, with a mild, earthy flavor.
  6. Mushrooms - a great source of umami, and can be used as a meat substitute.
  7. Cauliflower - a versatile and mild-flavored vegetable that can be used in place of tofu.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Tofu Press - a tool used to remove excess moisture from tofu Tofu Cutter - a tool used to cut large blocks of tofu into small cubes Tofu Drainer - a tool used to quickly and easily drain any excess liquid from tofu Tofu Shredder - a tool used to shred tofu into small pieces Tofu Marinade - a ready-made mixture of ingredients used to flavor and add texture to tofu Tofu Slicer - a tool used to create thin slices of tofu Silken Tofu - a type of tofu made with a soft curd that is suitable for use in desserts and smoothies Firm Tofu - a type of tofu made with a hard curd that is suitable for use in stir-fries, casseroles, and other dishes Spices - a variety of herbs and spices used to add flavor to tofu dishes

Common questions

  1. What type of Tofu should I buy?
    • The type of Tofu you should buy depends on what recipe you are using. There are different varieties of Tofu such as silken, firm, extra-firm, Japanese-style, smoked, and marinated. Each type will give a different texture and taste to the dish.
  2. Where can I buy Tofu?
    • Tofu can be found in most supermarkets and natural food stores. You can also purchase it online from specialty retailers.
  3. How do I know if the Tofu is fresh?
    • Fresh Tofu should have a smooth, creamy texture and should not be slimy or grainy. It should also have a mild, slightly sweet smell, and should not have an ammonia smell.
  4. How should I store Tofu?
    • Uncooked Tofu should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator and should be used within a few days. Cooked Tofu can be stored in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator and should be used within 3-4 days.
  5. Can I freeze Tofu?
    • Yes, you can freeze Tofu. It should be stored in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag and can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days.

Trivia

Tofu has an interesting backstory. It was first discovered over 2000 years ago in China, when a chef accidentally curdled soy milk by adding nigari - a mineral-rich substance found in ocean water. This discovery was then refined and popularized as tofu, which has since become a popular dish in many cultures. It is a great source of plant-based proteins, and is also very versatile, as it can take on different flavors and textures depending on how it is cooked. It is now a staple of diets around the world. Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tofu-101#section1

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.