Pressing tofu removes excess water, resulting in a firmer texture that holds up better during cooking. This process enhances flavor absorption from marinades and prevents the tofu from becoming too soggy when stir-frying or grilling. While not necessary for all recipes, pressing tofu is a common step to improve its overall texture and taste.

How long to press tofu?

Pressing tofu can take up to one hour. The longer it's pressed, the more moisture will be drawn out, making it a better consistency for recipes that call for marinades.

What is the best way to press tofu?

The best way to press tofu is using the towel-pressed method, as it uses equipment you already have in your home and draws out moisture the best. Other options include pressing with paper towels or using a tofu press.

Do I really need a tofu press?

Not necessarily. It's a gadget that some find useful, but all that is really needed is a thick bath towel and some large coffee table books. The absorption and weight combo creates the perfect consistency for tossing into marinades. Not all tofu recipes require pressing tofu, so check the instructions first.

Can you press tofu in advance?

You can press tofu in advance—just be sure to refrigerate it afterward. Keep in mind that pressed tofu can be stored in marinade overnight as well.

How To Press Tofu (Without A Tofu Press)

Description

Learn how to press tofu without a press. In this method, we’ll be using a thick bath towel and about 10 pounds of heavy books to draw all of the moisture out of the tofu. This allows the tofu to best soak up marinades and sauces without watering them down!

Ingredients

14 oz. block of firm or super firm tofu
large bath towel
10 pounds of large, coffee table books

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Instructions

Cut the tofu into 4 to 8 slabs.
Fold a large, thick bath towel in half. Place the slabs evenly onto it, then fold the towel over the top.
Place about 10 pounds of coffee table books over the top.
Allow to press for one hour.
Transfer to any tofu marinade of your choice, allowing to marinate at a minimum of one hour, or up to overnight.

Prep Time: 1 hour
Category: Lunch, Dinner
Method: Pressed
Cuisine: American