26 Tasty Tofu Recipes So Good They Will Blow Your Mind (2024)

Move Beyond the Usual Stir Fry

By

Cathy Jacobs

26 Tasty Tofu Recipes So Good They Will Blow Your Mind (1)

A freelance journalist and avid home cook, Cathy Jacobs has more than 10 years of food writing experience, with a focus on curating approachable menus and recipe collections.

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Updated on 03/7/22

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26 Tasty Tofu Recipes So Good They Will Blow Your Mind (2)

Want to get cooking with more delicious tofu? Whether you're a vegan or vegetarian, or are looking to include more meatless meals in your routine, tofu is a great option for adding healthy plant protein into your diet. This soy-based wonder food is made from curdling soy milk, and forming it into a solid block (a whole lot like making cheese). Beyond being a nutrient-rich vegan food, tofu has a mild flavor which helps it play well in many different dishes, from classic all-American recipes to those from global cuisines. Browse our delicious ideas for using tofu at every meal of the day, including quick breakfast scrambles, make-ahead lunches, easy weeknight meals, and dinner party-worthy mains. We've even included an Instagram-worthy vegan "tofurkey" with stuffing that is ideal for holiday meals.

What's the difference between firm and soft tofu?

When shopping for tofu, you may notice it comes in both "firm" and "soft" varieties, which lend themselves to different uses. Wherever appropriate, you will find this indicated in our recipes. You can also shop for a tofu press, which you can use to remove excess moisture from blocks of tofu, so they hold together better during certain types of cooking (particularly frying and grilling).

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    Blueberry Tofu Smoothie

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    If you are looking for a vegan fruit smoothie or simply one that is made without dairy, this blueberry tofu smoothie is for you. The silken tofu blends up beautifully to make a creamy shake while offering a healthy dose of protein. The banana andblueberriesbring vitamins and minerals as well as color and flavor to this refreshing drink while the honey adds a touch of sweetness.

  • 02 of 26

    Jamaican Jerk Tofu

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    Take a culinary trip to the islands without leaving home thanks to this tasty, rum-spiked Jamaican recipe. Marinate tofu steaks overnight in a mixture of coconut oil, rum, brown sugar, tomato paste, soy sauce, herbs, hot peppers, and dried spices, before baking until gorgeously blackened.

  • 03 of 26

    Breakfast Vegan Tofu Scramble

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    Breakfast just got a little brighter for those avoiding eggs with our easy tofu scramble. The popular vegan breakfast alternative mimics the fluffy texture of scrambled eggs, and uses turmeric to add color. You get all the old school breakfast feels, without the need of animal products. We add chopped green peppers and onions for crunch, but feel free to experiment with other veggies and spices to make it your own.

  • 04 of 26

    Japanese Fried Agedashi Tofu

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    Agedashi tofu is a popular Japanese restaurant appetizer with a crispy fried exterior and a warm, creamy, custard-like interior. Recreate it at home by coating soft tofu in a mixture of potato starch, dashi soup stock, soy sauce, and rice wine, before deep-frying and serving topped with its own sauce.

  • 05 of 26

    Deep-Fried Tofu

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    Transform a block of tofu into crispy, golden-brown nuggets of goodness with this easy 10-minute snack or meal. Deep frying gives the tofu a golden color and a crispy texture in this easy-to-maketofu recipe. You can enjoy deep-fried tofu as its own course, served with a dipping sauce, or add to recipes for stir-fries, noodles, rice dishes, pasta, and more.

  • 06 of 26

    Sesame and Chili Marinated Tofu

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    Thistofumarinade made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili paste does double duty as a marinade and a sauce. Pressing the tofu and then dry-frying before marinating removes all of the moisture, enabling the tofu to really soak up the flavors.

  • 07 of 26

    Spicy Korean Soft Tofu Stew

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    Take your comfort food routine to the next level with this spicy Korean stew that is loaded with soft tofu, garlicky chunks of beef, and tender clams. The ingredients cook in one pot in about 30 minutes for a quick family meal that is meaty, savory, and satisfying.

  • 08 of 26

    Vegan "Egg" Salad

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    Have you been missing egg salad on a vegan diet? Full of healthy plant protein, and loaded with creamy flavor, our vegan "egg" salad made with tofu is a busy vegan's best friend. Make it when you are meal prepping for the week, for including in lunchtime sandwiches, topping salads, and bringing to potlucks.

    Continue to 9 of 26 below.

  • 09 of 26

    Vegetarian Tofu Tacos

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    Try making your next taco night a meatless one with vegetarian tofu tacos that are tasty enough to win over even meat-eaters. Crumble firm tofu and cook it with Mexican-inspired spices as a stand-in for ground beef. Melty vegan cheese, crunchy slaw, and tangy salsa verde add brightness and texture.

  • 10 of 26

    Vegan Tofu Tikka Masala

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    Create a meatless tikka masala with this veganized version of the takeout favorite. Marinate cubes of pressed, extra-firm tofu before cooking them in a thick, creamy sauce made with soy yogurt, canned crushed tomatoes, and warming spices.

  • 11 of 26

    Ganmodoki Fried Tofu Dumpling

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    Ganmodoki, or Japanese deep-fried tofu fritters, are a vegan foodie's delight. While you can buy these dumplings at the store, they don't hold a candle to freshly-made, piping hot ganmodoki made with tofu and diced fresh vegetables, and cooked on your stove-top. Serve them as a party appetizer with soy sauce for dipping, or enjoy them as a dumpling in dashi broth.

  • 12 of 26

    Baked Tofu in Thai Peanut Sauce

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    Thai satay lovers will adore this baked tofu in a delicious Thai-inspired peanut sauce. Maple syrup helps to caramelize and sweeten the baked tofu before it is coated in thick, citrus-spiked peanut sauce. Serve over rice noodles or rice.

    Continue to 13 of 26 below.

  • 13 of 26

    Vegan Indian Palak "Paneer"

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    Every once in a while, wecome up with something so good that it impresses us so much, and we just want to shout it from the rooftops. Thisveganpaneer substitute, made from tofu seasoned with a blend ofnutritional yeastfor savoriness, Dijon mustard for tanginess and a touch of onion powder, garlic powder, curry and salt to tie it all together, is one of those times.

  • 14 of 26

    Inarizushi (Rice Stuffed Tofu Pockets)

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    If you've tried and loved inarizushi at a Japanese restaurant, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn how easy they are to make at home. You start by buying the seasoned, deep-fried tofu pouches (aburaage) at the market. Then it's a simple matter of stuffing the pockets with cooked and seasoned sushi rice.They make a tasty bento box addition for packed lunches, or a healthy after-school snack.

  • 15 of 26

    Vegetarian Tom Yum Soup

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    Tom Yum soup is a beloved Thai comfort food that packs an insane amount of flavor and goodness into every bowlful. Our vegan version is easy to pull together with soft tofu, a can of coconut milk, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a few common pantry seasonings. Serve the aromatic soup for lunch, add it to a Thai dinner menu, or pour it into a thermos for a warm and healthy lunch at work.

  • 16 of 26

    Vegan Blackened Grilled Tofu

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    Crispy blackened tofu is so full of flavor, you won't miss the meat. Marinate pressed tofu in plenty of the seasoning mixture before cooking it quickly on a hot grill. Makes a tasty filling for vegetarian tacos.

    Continue to 17 of 26 below.

  • 17 of 26

    Vegan Tofu Spring Rolls

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    Vegan spring rolls with tofu, vegetables, and bean thread noodles make a lovely light lunch or party appetizer. Fresh mint leaves add fantastic brightness to chopped cabbage, carrots, ginger, and noodles wrapped in softened spring roll wrappers. Serve with peanut sauce for dipping.

  • 18 of 26

    Crispy Sesame Tofu With Vegetables

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    Enjoy the texture and flavors of this sesame-crusted tofu along with tender bell peppers and onions. Serve it over fluffy rice for a pleasing meal in under 30 minutes.

  • 19 of 26

    Vegan Potstickers With Mushroom and Tofu

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    You won't miss the meat in these savory mushroom and tofu-filled, Asian-inspired potstickers that make a tasty party appetizer. Cabbage, ginger, garlic, and scallions add extra flavor to tasty dumplings you can steam or fry. Serve with your favorite Asian dipping sauce.

  • 20 of 26

    Vegan Chinese Kung Pao Tofu

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    Thisvegetariankung pao tofu recipe also calls for lots of vegetables,including snow peas, bok choy, cabbage, and mushrooms, making for a colorful, balanced dish. This version utilizes red pepper flakes and hot sauce to develop some heat, but feel free to use Szechuan and chili peppers if you like.

    Continue to 21 of 26 below.

  • 21 of 26

    Grain Bowl With Vegetables

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    There are so many possibilities for how you can change up this vegan recipe. Use what veggies and proteins you have on hand and even create different creamy sauces. Green goddess,salsa, or tzatziki⁠—there are tons of possibilities.

  • 22 of 26

    Vegan Pho (Tofu Noodle Soup)

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    Chewy rice noodles, a nourishing broth, fresh vegetables, spicy sambal oelek, and tender chunks of tofu make Vietnamese-inspired vegan pho an outstanding main course soup to enjoy on chilly autumn or winter nights. Top with basil leaves and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

  • 23 of 26

    Vegan Broccoli Quiche

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    Delight vegan and omnivore guests alike at your next brunch with this egg-free broccoli quiche. Its lovely, custard-like filling uses tofu instead of eggs or egg replacer.

  • 24 of 26

    Swiss Chard and Tofu Stir-Fry

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    Stir-fries are a great way to get a meal on the table that the whole family will love. And when you need to satisfy a vegetarian, vegan, or even a family member that is gluten-free, a tofu stir-fry is a tasty solution. With Swiss chard, tofu, mushrooms, and a bit of soy sauce ortamari, this recipe is a simple but delicious meal that is quick to put together.

    Continue to 25 of 26 below.

  • 25 of 26

    Vegan Tofu Veggie Burgers

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    Build a better veggie burger by combining well-pressed, drained tofu with diced onions, scallions, wheat germ, garlic powder, soy sauce, and a little flour. Form into patties and pan-fry until golden-brown, then serve on buns.

  • 26 of 26

    Sichuan Mapo Tofu

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    Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish of soft tofu and ground pork in a spicy, pungent sauce that includes fermented Chinese black beans. After briefly marinating pork and blanching the tofu, the dish comes together quickly in a hot wok. Serve over hot steamed rice.

26 Tasty Tofu Recipes So Good They Will Blow Your Mind (2024)

FAQs

What not to mix with tofu? ›

What to not serve with tofu? According to studies, a high volume consumption of tofu and spinach together can increase your risk of kidney stones. Tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively and the combined can form kidney stones.

What is the tastiest way to make tofu? ›

Coat it in garlic, black pepper, salt (plus more of your favourite seasonings), liquid aminos and some olive oil. Then mix it into some cornstarch and toss it all together, then bake for about 20 minutes. Cornstarch also helps to draw out excess moisture so it really gets the tofu crispy.

Do I need to rinse tofu? ›

She encourages people to treat tofu in a similar manner to canned beans, which we are taught to drain and rinse before using. She finds that doing so can help eliminate any off-flavors from preservatives in the water for liquid-packed tofu.

Does tofu taste like meat? ›

What Does Tofu Taste Like? Plain tofu has no specific flavor and is honestly, quite bland. This might be why people tend to hate it but the fact that it's bland is exactly why we should LOVE it. The texture of tofu is more important than the taste- all the different types of tofu have different textures.

Why can't you eat spinach with tofu? ›

- It is said that tofu cannot be eaten together with spinach at the same time. As tofu and spinach contain calcium and oxalic acid respectively, the combination of the two will form kidney stones. But in fact, only prolonged and volumionous consumption of tofu and spinach at the same time will pose this risk.

Is tofu a high inflammatory food? ›

Tofu and tempeh.

Studies suggest people who eat soy-based foods have lower odds of inflammation-related diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Nuts and legumes, Tree nuts like almonds and walnuts, along with peanuts, are rich in unsaturated fats, along with anti-inflammatory vitamins and minerals.

Is it better to fry or bake tofu? ›

It sticks, and the crispy bits end up sticking to the pan, which is a tofu tragedy. Plus, it requires more oil, and you don't need to use a lot of oil to get crispy tofu. When you bake your tofu, you give it time to develop crispy edges and warm, pillowy insides. It's simply the best.

What is the secret to cooking tofu? ›

Press it. Tofu contains a lot of water, and you'll want to squeeze most of it out, especially if you're baking, grilling, or frying it. I recommend using a tofu press to do this, because it gives the tofu a delicious chewy texture and makes cleanup a breeze. But having one isn't necessary.

Should you marinate tofu before cooking? ›

Tofu has very little flavour itself but soaks up almost every flavour you add to it. When you put tofu in a stew or simmer it in a broth, you don't need to marinade it beforehand, as it absorbs all of the flavours during cooking. But for all other types of preparations, it's better to marinate the tofu first of all.

What happens if you don't press tofu? ›

And if tofu is vacuumed packed or firm already, you definitely don't need to press it. Here's why: moisture in tofu is a good thing. Tofu is over 80% water, and that moisture is what makes it such a succulent, juicy source of protein. Pressing it can make the tofu unnecessarily dry and strip it of its intended texture.

How long does tofu last in the fridge? ›

If it darkens in color, begins to smell, or feels slimy, it should be thrown away. Bottom line: Open packages of tofu are good in the fridge for up to five days, provided you change the water daily.

Why won't my tofu get crispy? ›

If your crispy tofu isn't getting crispy, it could be because there is too much moisture in the tofu. Another issue could be the oil isn't hot enough to fry the tofu. Or you forgot to add the corn flour. These three reasons can cause your tofu to be soggy or not crisp up as much as you'd like.

Is tofu healthier then meat? ›

Nutritionally, tofu offers much to love. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, half a cup of firm tofu offers 21.8 grams of protein with 181 calories and 11 grams of fat. Most of that fat is of the healthy polyunsaturated kind. The high level of protein makes tofu a good alternative to animal-derived meat.

Can you eat tofu raw? ›

Eat it raw: Tofu is completely safe to eat raw. Whether you press it or marinate it, you can use raw tofu in salads, smoothies, or have it as a protein-packed snack. Marinating: Since tofu has a bland flavor, marinating it is very popular.

Can tofu fully replace meat? ›

Tofu is rich in nutrients, contains all essential amino acids and is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Its adaptability allows for use in diverse dishes, whether as a meat substitute in vegetarian meals, blended into smoothies, or grilled, baked or stir-fried for added protein in a range of recipes.

Can we eat tofu and egg together? ›

Yes, you can eat eggs and soya chunks together. Both eggs and soya chunks are good sources of protein, and consuming them together can help meet your daily protein requirements. You can add boiled or scrambled eggs to your soya chunk curry or stir-fry for a balanced meal.

Is it OK to eat eggs with tofu? ›

Quick, easy, and healthy, Tofu and Eggs is the perfect meal for any weeknight dinner!

Why can't I cook tofu? ›

The 8 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Cooking Tofu
  • You bought the wrong kind. Tofu is made of condensed soy milk in a process very similar to cheesemaking. ...
  • You didn't remove the liquid. ...
  • You cut it too large. ...
  • You used oil in your marinade. ...
  • You breaded it. ...
  • You didn't cook it long enough. ...
  • You used the wrong pan.
Apr 13, 2018

What happens if you blend tofu? ›

Add a few simple ingredients to a blender, blend, and serve. It's simple yet satisfying and delicious! Silken Tofu: The base of this creamy vegan pasta sauce is silken tofu. When silken tofu is blended, it becomes silky and smooth and makes the perfect protein-packed pasta sauce.

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