Hate tofu? You’re doing it wrong
by Alice Shopland, founder of Angel Food
Treat it right and tofu can elevate your plant-based meals. Although it’s sometimes dismissed as bland or spongy, the secret to delicious tofu lies in its preparation. One of the most effective techniques to transform tofu’s texture and flavour is freezing it. Yes, freezing tofu can do wonders for both its taste and versatility.
When tofu is frozen, the water inside expands and forms tiny ice crystals. As it thaws, these crystals leave behind pockets where the moisture used to be. This process changes the texture, making it chewier and more satisfying—ideal for dishes where you want a heartier bite. Additionally, the porous structure absorbs marinades exceptionally well, making the tofu a flavour-packed star in your meals.
How to Freeze and Prepare Tofu
1. Freeze the Tofu: Take a block of firm or extra-firm tofu and drain any excess liquid. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze it overnight. You don’t need to press the tofu before freezing—that step comes later.
2. Thaw and Press: Once frozen solid, remove the tofu from the freezer and let it thaw completely. You can thaw it in the fridge or speed up the process by placing it in a bowl of warm water. After thawing, gently squeeze out the excess water. At this point, the tofu will be firmer and more porous.
3. Marinate: Cut the tofu into your desired shape—cubes, slices, or crumbles. Then, soak it in your favourite marinade. Thanks to the freezing and thawing process, the tofu absorbs flavours more effectively. Whether you choose a soy-ginger marinade, smoky barbecue sauce, or a zesty lemon-herb mix, the tofu will soak up all the delicious flavours.
4. Cook: Finally, cook your tofu to perfection. Pan-fry, bake, air-fry, or grill it until golden and crispy on the outside. The result is flavourful, chewy tofu that can win over even the most sceptical eaters.
Additional Tips for Perfect Tofu
1. Choose the Right Type: Tofu comes in various textures, from silken to extra firm. Silken tofu works well in soups, smoothies, and desserts, while firm and extra firm tofu are best for frying, grilling, or baking.
2. Press for Success: Removing excess water before cooking allows tofu to absorb marinades better and achieve a crispier texture. Use a clean tea towel and a heavy object to press the tofu for 15-30 minutes, or invest in a tofu press for convenience.
3. Experiment with Coatings: Toss tofu cubes in cornflour, breadcrumbs, or nutritional yeast before cooking for an extra crispy crust. Add spices like paprika or chili powder for added flavour.
4. Try Different Cooking Methods: Fry tofu for crispy edges, bake it for a firmer texture, or grill it for a smoky flavour. Stir-frying with vegetables and sauces is another excellent option.
5. Pair with Bold Sauces: Sweet and sour, peanut satay, hoisin, or chili sauces can elevate tofu from bland to brilliant. Garnish with fresh herbs, sesame seeds, or spring onions for extra flair.
6. Get Creative with Scrambles and Crumbles: Use crumbled tofu as a base for scrambles, tacos, or spaghetti bolognese. Add turmeric, garlic powder, and soy milk for a vibrant tofu scramble.
Tofu’s history dates back over 2,000 years to China’s Han Dynasty, where it was likely created by curdling soy milk with natural coagulants. It became a staple in Asian cuisine and is now celebrated worldwide for its high protein content, affordability, and versatility. With the tips above, you can unlock the full potential of tofu, turning it into a delicious, nutritious, and sustainable addition to your meals.
Try some of these vegan Angel Food recipes using tofu:
