Food
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Types of Tofu?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

There are many different types of tofu, most of which break down into either regular or Japanese style tofu. It is important to check a recipe to find out what kind of tofu is required, since different types of tofu can behave very differently. Using the wrong type can cause a disaster in the kitchen.

Before delving into the types of tofu, it may help to know how tofu is made. Tofu producers create tofu by pressing soybeans for their milk and then fermenting them so that they coagulate into curds, just like cheese. The curds are pressed into molds which are allowed to drain, encouraging the curds to stick together. Depending on how long the tofu is pressed, and what kind of ingredients are used to ferment it, the texture can vary widely.

A plate of tofu.
A plate of tofu.

Japanese style, or silken tofu, has a very silky, creamy texture. It is ideal in vegan desserts such as cakes and cookies which may call for tofu, since it blends readily. In Japan, silken tofu is used to make a variety of desserts and main dishes, served with various sauces. This type of tofu breaks up very easily, making it unsuitable for stir fries and similar dishes, as it will simply melt away among the other ingredients.

Tofu is a good substitute for meat in many dishes because it is high in protein.
Tofu is a good substitute for meat in many dishes because it is high in protein.

Regular tofu is much firmer and more dry, with a more cohesive structure. There are a number of types of tofu in this family, ranging from soft to extra firm. The harder the tofu is, the more it will hold its shape when handled. Firm and extra firm tofu types can be deep fried, added to stir fries, and used in similar dishes, which softer types of tofu can be blended or crumbled apart for various foods.

With its high smoking point and mild taste, peanut oil is ideal for making a stir-fry with firm tofu.
With its high smoking point and mild taste, peanut oil is ideal for making a stir-fry with firm tofu.

Regular tofu can also be pressed to make it even more dry. Some people enjoy making baked tofu, which is pressed regular tofu which is marinated and then slowly baked. The pressing dispels water, allowing the marinade to seep into the core of the tofu for more flavor. Baked tofu can be used in sandwiches, salads, and other dishes to taste.

Many supermarkets carry a couple of different types of tofu to choose from. In addition to being available in fresh, refrigerated form, tofu can also be found packed into sterile packages. Aseptically packaged tofu can keep for several months at room temperature, as long as it is not opened. This kind is usually silken.

With two basic types of tofu and a variety of firmnesses to choose from, there is a lot of variety to consider when buying tofu. As a general rule, you may want to go for regular tofu, also called Chinese style tofu or bean curd, unless silken tofu is specified in a recipe.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon29335

Most tofu is not fermented at all, as fermentation involves bacteria or fungi.

Tofu is curdled by adding salts to it (not table salt)- usually by adding calcium or magnesium salt (minerals obtained from sea water or natural deposits).

The three most common:

Calcium chloride

Calcium Sulfate

Magnesium Chloride (bittern, or nigari- it's sea water minus the sodium chloride) There are some other, newer things that can be used too.

Tofu skins, or sheets, are made by pressing tofu so much it becomes thin and firm, almost elastic like pasta. It can be cut into strips and used in place of noodles (almost pure protein-good for low-carb diets).

There are also a number of kinds of freeze-dried and spongy tofu textures that are made by different processes. Tofu ranges in texture so dramatically- from crunchy chip-like and springy/spongy prepared to pasta-like or tortilla-like (used for wrapping eggrolls/springrolls) to a firm chicken-like texture, to silky soft to down right indescribable.

Only the ones in this article (silken and firmer) you'll find at most grocery stores. You'll have better luck at Asian markets for the others.

tugboats

I was surprised to learn that silken tofu can actually be used in things like cheesecake - I never would have known that! It doesn't taste bad, either! But the regular tofu is much better for stir fry and that kind of thing.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A plate of tofu.
      By: Norman Chan
      A plate of tofu.
    • Tofu is a good substitute for meat in many dishes because it is high in protein.
      By: stockstudios
      Tofu is a good substitute for meat in many dishes because it is high in protein.
    • With its high smoking point and mild taste, peanut oil is ideal for making a stir-fry with firm tofu.
      By: WimL
      With its high smoking point and mild taste, peanut oil is ideal for making a stir-fry with firm tofu.