Tofu: Keep It Fresh and Delicious for 10 Days with This Method

If you're looking to buy tofu but don't plan on using it immediately or want to stock up for later, here are some tips on how to properly store it.

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Refrigerate for storage

Tofu, also known as bean curd, has become an essential ingredient in the daily meals of many families, not only for its tender and pleasant taste, but also for its high nutritional value. Tofu is a plant-based protein, low in fat, and can be easily combined with various types of foods to create numerous delicious and nutritious dishes, from crispy fried tofu and tofu soup to stuffed tofu.

When you bring fresh tofu home, you should store it in the cool compartment of the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for about 2 days without spoiling, allowing you to be flexible in preparing your desired meals.

Soak in saltwater

When you don’t have access to a refrigerator, preserving tofu can be a bit challenging, especially during hot summer days. However, you can still keep tofu fresh by placing it in a cool place and soaking it in water diluted with a moderate amount of salt. This method can keep tofu for at least 2 days in the summer, and even 3 to 4 days during cold winter weather.

If you want to extend the storage time, soaking tofu in a saltwater solution should be done carefully with the exact ratio: about 10 grams of salt for every 100 grams of tofu. This preservation method can help tofu stay fresh for up to 7-10 days without altering its characteristic flavor. If you store tofu in the cool compartment of the refrigerator, the storage time can be even longer.

It is important to note that when cooking preserved tofu using this method, you should reduce the amount of salt in the recipe or may not need to add salt at all, as the tofu has absorbed enough saltiness from the saltwater preservation.

Boil tofu

To maintain the freshness of tofu over several days without a refrigerator, you can apply the method of boiling tofu in boiling water with a little salt added. This not only helps clean the tofu by removing some bacteria but also creates a more stable preservation environment for tofu. After a quick boil, the tofu should be allowed to cool naturally and then stored in a cool and airy place such as the cool compartment of the refrigerator. This technique can help extend the storage time of tofu without worrying about the risk of spoilage, while preserving the quality and food safety.

Boiled tofu is not only a preparation step for preservation but also improves the texture of tofu, making it firmer and easier to absorb seasonings when cooking. However, make sure to let the tofu cool completely before storage to prevent the formation of steam, which can cause bacterial growth and affect the freshness of tofu.

Deep-fry tofu

Clean the tofu and cut it into appropriate pieces, then let it drain well. Heat a sufficient amount of cooking oil in a pan, then add the tofu pieces and fry until they are golden and crispy on both sides. After frying, remove the tofu and place it on paper towels to remove excess oil, wait for the tofu to cool completely before transferring it to the cool compartment of the refrigerator for storage. Preserving fried tofu in this way can make it last longer without losing its freshness.

It is worth noting that when fresh tofu is frozen, it can produce acidic compounds believed to support the breakdown of fat in the body, thereby potentially beneficial for weight control. Frozen tofu not only retains its shape and texture but also preserves its full nutritional value, making it a smart food choice for both health and physique.

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Frequently asked questions

To extend the shelf life of tofu and maintain its freshness and taste, you can follow these simple steps: select the firmest tofu available, freeze it immediately after purchasing, and when ready to use, defrost and press the tofu to remove excess moisture. By doing so, you can keep it fresh for up to 10 days.

Firm tofu has a lower moisture content compared to softer varieties, which means it will last longer. Softer tofu tends to spoil faster due to its higher water content, making it more susceptible to bacterial growth.

Freezing tofu changes its texture and structure, making it more resistant to spoilage. The freezing process slows down bacterial growth and enzymatic activity, effectively preserving the tofu. Once defrosted, it’s important to press the tofu to remove the excess water that has been released during freezing, as this water can encourage bacterial growth.

Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, which helps to improve its texture and make it more receptive to marinades and seasonings. It also reduces the risk of bacterial growth, as there is less water available for bacteria to thrive. This results in a firmer, more flavorful tofu that is perfect for cooking.

After pressing the tofu, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container with a small amount of water or vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also add flavors to the water or broth to infuse the tofu with additional taste. Store it in the refrigerator, and it should remain fresh for up to 10 days.