However, tofu doesn’t have a long shelf life. If you buy it and leave it out for a few hours, it will spoil, especially in the summer heat. It’s wasteful to throw away uneaten tofu, so check out these storage tips to keep it fresh for up to a week or even a month.
Submerge tofu in water and refrigerate
You might have noticed that tofu sellers often soak their tofu in water. This helps keep it fresh for the day. But what if you want it to last a week?
To extend the freshness of tofu, place it in a container of water and seal it. Then, put the container in the fridge. Change the water daily to maintain the tofu’s moisture and freshness. This method will keep your tofu edible for about a week.
Freeze tofu
If you don’t plan on eating the tofu within a week, you can still make it last longer. It’s best to freeze it; frozen tofu can last up to three months.
Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and place them on a sheet of baking paper. Put them in the freezer to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container for continued storage. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the tofu and squeeze out the excess water before cooking.
Frozen tofu has a firmer, spongier texture, which many chefs prefer for cooking.
Soak in a mild salt water solution
There’s another way to keep tofu fresh for 2-3 days if that’s your preference.
Add a teaspoon of salt to a clean glass container and fill it with water, stirring to dissolve the salt. Cut the tofu into long strips and place them in the container with the saltwater solution. Sprinkle some pepper on top, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate.
Salt, or sodium chloride, has antibacterial properties and helps the tofu retain moisture.
Using this method, your tofu will stay soft and fresh for 2-3 days!
Good luck!
The Secret to Keeping Tofu Fresh and Delicious for a Week: A Step-by-Step Guide
The art of preserving tofu has been practiced for centuries, and with good reason. This simple yet effective method can prolong the life of this versatile ingredient, making it a staple in kitchens across the globe. With a few easy steps, you can master the technique of keeping tofu fresh and flavorful for extended periods.