Because tofu is made from soybeans and water, when freezing tofu, the texture and taste will change slightly. Frozen tofuįrozen tofu is usually white tofu blocks that some people keep in their freezer to extend the shelf life. For thicker and larger pieces, the outside layer is a little bit crunchy and hard (because it’s fried) but the inside will taste just like regular whilte tofu.įried tofu pieces have yellow color and are usually packed in plastic bags. Depending on the size and thickness of each piece, the taste may vary.įor small and thin pieces, they will taste a little bit chewy and fatty as it’s fried in oil. These are usually store-bought fried tofu pieces in a package that you can purchase from Asian supermarkets. You can dab it with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and marinade or batter it before cooking.

Medium block crumbles easily when manipulated. With its high water content, it works best in sweet dishes. Soft block tofu has a texture similar to set gelatin. It can be stuffed, baked, stir-fry and pan-fried in any savory dish. Extra firm tofu types are best for fried, crispy tofu, or dishes requiring a hearty bite. The curds have been pressed tightly together and the product is dense with a chewy texture. It is available in soft, medium, firm, and extra firm types. This type is firm and is made by pressing the soy milk curds into block shapes that can be cut or sliced. They have a heavier consistency and will just hold their shape with light cooking but are still not as sturdy and firm as block types. It can be used as a substitute for eggs or yogurt.Įxtra firm and firm silken tofu are also smooth but slightly firmer. Soft silken tofu has a high water content, creamy texture, and does not hold its shape when used in cooking but it does mix well into other ingredients such as smoothies, sauces, and fillings for baking.

It is often used to thicken soups and sauces and is also the ideal option for creamy desserts and mousses. Since it is a lot softer, it needs to be handled carefully and cannot be pressed with the same pressure as medium block tofu as it won’t hold its shape. It is made without curds forming when coagulated which results in a smooth and creamier product without any lumps. This type comes in soft, firm, or extra firm types. Also, the taste of tofu will depend on the types and the cooking method. The different types will lend themselves better to certain types of cooking. Just like cheese comes in various consistencies that are firm like cheddar, or soft like cream cheese, this soy product also comes in different consistencies. Here’s the nutrition facts of each type of tofu per 100 gram serving size ( *, *, *): Nutrition Facts The ingredients of tofu or bean curd mainly consist of soybean, water and some salt coagulants such as magnesium chloride or calcium sulfate to adjust the firmness and consistency when making tofu. Plain tofu is sometimes spiced in the process to amp up its mild taste. The milk portion is thickened into a curd and pressed with a tofu press to squeeze out any excess liquid and form the blocks. The paste is spun in a centrifuge machine which separates the soy meal from the milk. This is heated and reduced as the moisture evaporates, forming a thick paste. They are then crushed to separate into bean fibers and soy milk. This soy product is completely vegan, made by soaking soybeans until they swell to double their size. Despite having a similar consistency to cheese, it does not taste at all the same. It is available in varying consistencies from soft and squishy (although still holding its shape) to firm types that have a similar consistency to feta cheese. Tofu is a soy product with a similar look to cheese as it generally comes in a block form. So, what exactly is it, and what does tofu taste like? In this guide, we’ll demystify this interesting ingredient so you can stop wondering and start cooking.

A bit like a chameleon, it adapts to its surroundings, taking on the flavors of whatever you are cooking it in. It is incredibly versatile and can be used in sweet and savory dishes, cooked and raw. Tofu is popularly used as a protein source in vegan or vegetarian diet.

Tofu nutrition facts