All About Tofu
Tofu may be the most ubiquitous of the vegan proteins out there, but how much do you really know about it?
What is tofu?
Tofu is the result of a process that’s similar to making cheese: Curds, made from coagulating soy milk, are set in a mold and pressed to extract as much, or as little, of the liquid whey as desired. Depending on how long the tofu is pressed and how much coagulant is used, the amount of whey released will vary, creating a range of textures from soft to firm.
What does tofu taste like?
Tofu has a clean, nutty, subtly sweet flavor, and is an ideal canvas for bold or aromatic sauces. It also takes to a wide variety of preparations. Tofu is a great choice for vegans because it’s high in protein, as well as being rich in iron and calcium.
How do I store tofu?
Tofu is highly perishable and has the best flavor and texture when it’s fresh, so look for a package with the latest expiration date possible. To store an opened package, submerge the tofu in water in a covered container and refrigerate it, changing the water daily. If your tofu tastes sour, it’s past its prime and should be thrown out.
How do I prepare tofu?
To Cut Tofu into Slabs:
Slice the block of tofu crosswise into ¾-inch slabs.
To Cut Tofu into Fingers:
Cut the tofu crosswise into slabs and then slice each slab into fingers of the desired size.
To Cut Tofu into Cubes:
Cut each finger into cubes of the desired size.
To Dry Tofu:
Spread the tofu pieces evenly over a rimmed baking sheet lined with paper towels, and let it sit for 20 minutes to drain. Gently press the tofu dry with paper towels.
