Tofu is a versatile and nutritious protein that works well in various dishes. However, cooking tofu the right way can make all the difference in flavor and texture. In this article, you’ll learn how to cook tofu in a pan, oven, and air fryer. I’ll also share creative ways to use tofu cubes and tips for storing tofu effectively.
1. Some Things You Need to Know Before Cooking Tofu
Selecting the Right Texture
Tofu comes in a variety of textures, from silken to extra-firm. When choosing, consider your dish. For desserts or miso soup, soft silken tofu is ideal due to its delicate, creamy consistency. However, for main dishes or bowl toppings, extra-firm tofu is the better choice. It offers a denser, heartier texture with a lower water content. Whenever possible, opt for organic tofu made without genetically modified soybeans for a healthier, more sustainable option.
Pressing Tofu
Tofu naturally holds a significant amount of water, which should be removed for optimal cooking results, especially when baking, air frying, or frying. A tofu press is the most effective tool for this task, as it extracts water efficiently while imparting a satisfying chewy texture. However, if a press is unavailable, a simple alternative is to press the tofu under a heavy object like a cast-iron skillet. If you are short on time, consider using a brand that requires no pressing. For example, Hodo Foods’ organic extra-firm tofu is an excellent choice, as it offers a delightful chewy texture straight from the package.
Seasoning for Flavor
Tofu has a reputation for being bland, which makes seasoning essential. Enhance its flavor by marinating it or using a recipe that ensures a flavorful outcome, such as crispy baked tofu. Proper seasoning will transform tofu from plain to delicious, elevating your dish significantly.
2. How To Cook Tofu in a Pan
Ingredients
- A block of extra-firm tofu (15-16 ounces)
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil (or any vegetable oil)
- Salt (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: First, drain the tofu and press tofu then cut them into cubes then put all tofu cubes in a zip lock bag. Next, transfer zip lock bag to the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step will help your fried tofu dish become crispy.
Step 2: Place a skillet on the stove over medium-high heat and drizzle the olive oil (4-5 tablespoons).
Step 3: Once the oil is nice and hot, release the top tofu cubes into the skillet. (* ensure to place the tofu pieces in a single layer without over-lapping)
Step 4: Cook each side of the tofu cubes for 3 minutes. Do not stir. Leave the Tofu alone until they are beautifully golden brown. Then, flip the side using tongs. Finally, transfer to a cooling rack..
3. How To Cook Tofu in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 block of extra firm tofu (14-15 ounces)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp white wine vinegar
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnishing)
Instructions
Step 1: Press the tofu to remove excess water. You can use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in paper towels and place something heavy on top for 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 2: Set the oven for preheating at 400°F. Meanwhile, cut a block of firm or extra-firm tofu into 1-inch cubes
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil with soy sauce, garlic powder, honey, and white wine vinegar. Put tofu cubes into the sauce mixture and stir gently using a spoon to coat evenly on all sides. Now, add the cornstarch on top of the sauce-coated tofu cubes then stir well to sure the cornstarch powder is no longer visible
Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Place the seasoned tofu on the wire rack in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
Step 5: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. During the baking, take the sheet pan out of the oven every 10 minutes interval, flip the cubes, and put it back into the oven.
Step 6: Finally, once the tofu cubes look strikingly crisp and golden, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Let the baked tofu pieces cool for 5 minutes, this will helps make them crispier. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top and enjoy!
4. How To Cook Tofu in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 block of extra-firm Tofu (15-16 ounces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp black pepper powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400 °F
Step 2: Next, drain the tofu and press tofu then cut them into smaller pieces
Step 3: In a large bowl, add tofu and mix them with olive oil, salt, paprika, and black pepper powder then coat it in cornstarch or arrowroot powder
Step 4: Spread out seasoned tofu pieces in an air fryer basket. In a single layer, without overlapping, and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. What To Do With Tofu?
Stir-Fries: Toss tofu cubes with sautéed vegetables and sauce for a quick and healthy meal.
Salads: Add crispy baked or air-fried tofu to salads for a protein boost.
Curries: Simmer tofu cubes in coconut milk with spices to create a flavorful curry dish.
Wraps and Sandwiches: Use tofu cubes as a filling for wraps or sandwiches with fresh veggies and sauces.
Bowls: Combine tofu cubes with rice, quinoa, or noodles, along with steamed vegetables and a drizzle of dressing or sauce.
Snacks: Serve tofu cubes with dipping sauces like peanut sauce, sweet chili, or soy sauce.
6. How To Store Tofu
Unopened Tofu: Store unopened tofu in the refrigerator until the expiration date on the package.
Opened Tofu: If you’ve opened the package but haven’t used all the tofu, transfer the remaining block to a container filled with fresh water. Change the water daily and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooked Tofu: Store cooked tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pan, oven, or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Freezing Tofu: Firm and extra-firm tofu freeze well. Drain and press the tofu, then freeze it in its block form or cut into cubes. Frozen tofu develops a chewier texture, making it ideal for marinades and stir-fries. To use, thaw it in the refrigerator and press out any excess water.
Tofu is a food versatile and can be cooked in many different ways, making it a perfect ingredient for both main dishes and side dishes. With these instructions, I hope that you knew how to cook tofu properly at home. Good luck.
