Firm Tofu vs. Silken Tofu: What’s the Difference?

Tofu
Photo by Yoav Aziz on Unsplash

Tofu is a staple in vegetarian and vegan diets, as well as in various Asian cuisines. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes and packed with nutrients. Here’s what you need to know about the two most popular options: firm and silken tofu. 

Firm Tofu

Firm tofu, sometimes referred to as just regular tofu, is the more common and easily recognizable type of tofu. It is produced by coagulating soy milk and then pressing it to remove excess water. Firm tofu holds its shape well and can be cubed, sliced, or crumbled without falling apart. It’s perfect for stir-fries, grilling, pan-frying, and baking.

Silken Tofu

Silken tofu, as the name suggests, has a much softer and silkier texture. It is made by a slightly different process, It’s often described as custard-like or silky. Silken tofu doesn’t hold its shape as well as hard tofu and is more likely to crumble. It’s best for recipes where you want a creamy or smooth texture, like soups, desserts, and sauces. Silken tofu is also often used as a dairy or egg substitute in vegan recipes.

So there you have it. Shop tofu with confidence from now on.