Silken tofu is a versatile ingredient that works wonders in both savory and sweet dishes. Its smooth, creamy texture makes it ideal for recipes where you want a soft, delicate mouthfeel.
This simple and flavorful recipe brings out the best in silken tofu by pairing it with savory, spicy, and tangy elements, creating a dish that is perfect for a light meal or a delicious side. Here’s how to make the best silken tofu recipe.
1. Best Silken Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz block soft or silken tofu
- 2 scallions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili crisp (see notes for brand recommendations)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
Start by draining the silken tofu. Gently press it with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess water, but don’t press too hard as it’s delicate.
Once drained, cut the tofu into cubes or leave it whole, depending on your preference. I personally love leaving the tofu whole, as it gives a more elegant presentation and retains its soft texture better.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and chili crisp. This mixture will give your tofu a flavorful, slightly spicy, and tangy dressing.
I recommend using a good quality chili crisp, as it adds depth and a nice crunch to the dish. If you’re unsure about which brand to use, try the Laoganma brand—it’s widely loved for its perfect balance of spice and flavor.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a small skillet, heat a teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the white part of the sliced scallions. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Tofu and Sauce
Gently place the tofu cubes or whole tofu in a shallow bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes. You can spoon some of the sauce over the tofu halfway through if you want it to soak in more.
Finish with Garnishes
Once the tofu has marinated, top it with the sautéed garlic and scallions, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor boost. If you like, drizzle with a little more toasted sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
The dish is now ready to serve!
2. Tips for Perfect Silken Tofu
Handle with Care: Silken tofu is incredibly delicate, so when handling it, be sure to use a gentle touch. Pressing too hard or stirring too vigorously will cause it to break apart. The key to getting the best texture is to let it sit undisturbed and allow the sauce to soak in.
Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili crisp or substitute it with a less spicy condiment, like hoisin sauce or even a small splash of sriracha. Adjust to taste based on your spice tolerance.
Allow Marinating Time: The tofu will absorb more flavor the longer it marinates, but it can still be served after a short 10-15 minute soak. If you have the time, let it marinate for up to an hour for a deeper flavor profile.
Experiment with Sauces: While the soy sauce and chili crisp combo is a fantastic base, feel free to get creative with other flavor additions. A touch of lime juice or fresh herbs can change the flavor in wonderful ways.
3. Serving Suggestions
With Steamed Rice: Serve the tofu over a bowl of warm steamed rice for a comforting, balanced meal. The tofu’s creamy texture pairs perfectly with the rice, soaking up all the savory sauce.
As a Side Dish: This tofu can also be served as a side to complement other dishes. It pairs beautifully with stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or even grilled meats for a well-rounded meal.
On Noodles: For a heartier meal, serve the tofu on top of noodles. Whether it’s soba, ramen, or rice noodles, the tofu adds a delicious contrast to the noodles’ chewy texture.
With Fresh Greens: Add some crunchy, fresh vegetables like shredded cabbage, cucumber, or even steamed broccoli for a refreshing contrast. The coolness of the veggies balances out the warmth and richness of the tofu.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days. The tofu may release some liquid as it sits, but this can be easily reabsorbed during reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, use a gentle method. I recommend reheating in a covered skillet on low heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through, to warm it up.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silken Tofu?
Silken tofu is a soft, smooth tofu that has a high moisture content and is typically used in dishes that require a creamy texture. Unlike firmer types of tofu, silken tofu is delicate and can be used in smoothies, sauces, soups, or as a base for desserts.
Where to Buy Silken Tofu?
Silken tofu can be found in most grocery stores, especially in the Asian or health food section. Look for it in the refrigerated section alongside other tofu varieties. You’ll find it sold in vacuum-sealed containers, and it’s usually labeled as soft or silken tofu.
What Does Silken Tofu Taste Like?
Silken tofu has a mild, neutral flavor on its own. Its charm comes from its ability to absorb flavors from whatever it is cooked with. In this recipe, the soy sauce, chili crisp, and sesame oil bring out a savory, slightly spicy, and umami-packed taste that complements the tofu’s creamy texture.
This best silken tofu recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor. I love how the tofu retains its delicate, creamy texture while absorbing all the flavors of the tangy soy sauce, chili crisp, and sesame oil.
It’s an incredibly versatile dish, perfect for any occasion, and the best part is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking, you get a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
Try it as a light meal or a side dish, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your kitchen!
