Plain tofu tastes very mild, almost neutral, with a faint milky, beany note. Its real strength is that it soaks up whatever you cook it with, so it takes on the flavour of your sauces, marinades and spices.
Why it is used
Because it is a blank canvas. Press it, season it and cook it hot, and it carries big flavours while adding protein and texture.
How to give it flavour
Marinate it, coat it in cornflour and fry it until crisp, or simmer it in a sauce. Firm tofu browns well; silken tofu melts into soups.
Textures
Silken is soft and custardy, firm holds its shape for stir-fries, and extra-firm crisps up best of all.
Find some on our where to buy tofu guide.
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- Firm tofu. Good for trying tofu in a stir fry or pan fried.
