You can press tofu with items that you already have in your kitchen without the need for a special device. As soon as you press it, look at our detailed instructions for cooking tofu and some of our favorite tofu dishes.
Next-Level Tofu
Pressing your tofu may make a significant impact, whether you desire crispy edges or just a meatier texture. Use our easy procedures to get rid of extra moisture.
Step 1: Open & Drain
Tofu purchased in stores is frequently packaged with additional liquid. Drain the liquid after carefully cutting open the package (it can spill readily, so it’s better to do this over the sink).
Step 2: Pat Dry
Dry the tofu’s surface with a gentle towel or paper towel.
Step 3: Prep for Pressing
The tofu should be placed on top of two paper towels on a sheet pan or a sizable platter.
Step 4: Use Something Heavy
Place something weighty on top of the tofu and cover the top with more paper towels. You can use anything that is heavy enough to apply pressure on the tofu, but we prefer to use our reliable cast iron skillet. Allow it to rest in your refrigerator overnight or for at least 30 minutes in this manner.
Step 5: Remove
Remove the paper towels and the skillet (or other heavy object, if applicable).
Step 6: Cook
Your tofu is now ready to cook once you’ve drained it of extra moisture. See all of our favorite tofu recipes and our instructions to making the tastiest tofu below.
How to Cook Perfect Tofu
Follow our step-by-step directions to cook tofu in the oven, then add your favorite seasonings and sauces to make it your own. Press your tofu before cooking for the ideal texture, and don’t forget to browse our collection of the best tofu recipes for meal inspiration. Using his own photos, Jonathan Melendez
Crave-Worthy Tofu
Don’t accept tofu that is only adequate. With little work, this recipe makes sure it’s crispy on the exterior and meaty on the inside! Follow these easy instructions to finally master this meatless protein.
Step 1: Drain & Press Tofu
Draining and pressing your tofu is crucial for achieving the optimum texture. By removing any extra moisture, your tofu will be able to crisp up and keep its shape during cooking. Uncertain about where to begin? See the short tutorial on pressing tofu below.
Step 2: Slice the Tofu
Set the oven to 400 °F. It’s time to slice the tofu once it has been cleaned, pressed, and patted dry. The tofu block should be divided into 1-inch pieces and put aside in a big basin.
Step 3: Season the Tofu
Add your preferred seasonings after drizzling 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the cubed tofu. With salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder, we like to keep things straightforward. To uniformly distribute the oil and seasoning mixture, gently toss the tofu.
Step 4: Spread Onto a Sheet Pan
Spread the tofu out in a single layer on a sheet pan or roasting pan that has been generously oiled. Give the tofu some space and use two pans if necessary to allow it to cook properly. Do not crowd or pile the tofu.
Step 5: Bake at 400°F & Flip
Tofu should be baked for 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, removed, and then the chunks should be turned over to achieve even cooking.
Step 6: Finish Baking
Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sides are crispy and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Your tofu is prepared for serving once it has completed roasting! Below are all of our favorite ways to prepare tofu.