Have you ever cooked with tofu? If so, then you know that it can be a bit of a challenge to get the texture just right. It is actually a pretty versatile ingredient, but it's not always easy to work with. That's why having a good tofu press in your kitchen is so important!
Quality tofu presses can help you to produce perfectly cooked tofu every time. It also allows you to experiment with different textures and flavors, making your meals more exciting. So if you're looking to up your tofu game, why not invest in a good press? You won't regret it!
Ever thought about making your own tofu? Making homemade tofu can be a bit challenging the first few times you try it, but with practice and experience, it becomes easier. The process involves a few specific steps, but it's definitely doable with the right ingredients and equipment. Here's a general overview of how homemade tofu is made:
Ingredients: The primary ingredients you'll need are soybeans and a coagulant. Traditionally, nigari (magnesium chloride) or gypsum (calcium sulfate) are used as coagulants. You can find these coagulants in Asian grocery stores or online. Additionally, you'll need water for soaking the beans.
Soaking the Soybeans: Start by soaking dried soybeans in water overnight or for at least 8-12 hours. This rehydrates the beans and makes them easier to blend.
Blending: Drain the soaked soybeans and blend them with fresh water until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. The ratio is usually around 1 part soybeans to 3-4 parts water, but you can adjust it based on your preference for firmness.
Cooking the Soy Milk: Pour the blended mixture into a large pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Bring the mixture to a simmer, but avoid boiling it.
Coagulation: While the soy milk is still hot, add the coagulant (dissolved in a little water) and stir gently. The coagulant will cause the soy milk to curdle and form curds. Let it sit undisturbed for about 15-20 minutes to complete the coagulation process.
Draining the Curds: Line a tofu mold or a makeshift mold with cheesecloth or muslin fabric. Ladle the curds into the mold, allowing the whey to drain away. You can also gently press the curds to remove more whey and create a firmer tofu.
Pressing: Fold the cloth over the curds, place a weight on top (a heavy book or a tofu press), and let it press for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the desired firmness.
Chilling: Once pressed, carefully remove the tofu from the mold and place it in a bowl of cold water. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
It's essential to note that making tofu can take a few tries to perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first batch doesn't turn out exactly as expected. Factors like the coagulant type, soybean quality, and pressing time can affect the tofu's texture and flavor.
If you enjoy learning about food preparation and have some patience, making homemade tofu can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. There are also numerous online tutorials and videos that can guide you through the process and provide helpful tips.
Once you purchase a tofu press, you might just want to give it a try and make your own, assuring yourself and your family of its freshness!
How We Choose the Best Tofu Presses
If you're ready to take your tofu game to the next level, Bertie’s Buzz can help you make an informed decision with our selection of the top 6 presses. Carefully considering countless reviews and articles to find the best tofu presses out there, our team has done the research so that you don't have to.
So, whether you're just starting out or you're already a connoisseur, the perfect tofu press is waiting for you! Allow us to simplify your search and make sure you get the best of the best. We have chosen the 7 best tofu presses available, so let Bertie’s Buzz guide you to upping your tofu game today!
We Love It Because:
The NOYA Adjustable Tofu Press is the perfect tool for anyone who loves tofu! This tofu press with its strong stainless steel spring speeds up removing water from the tofu block, so you can enjoy it in just 10-30 minutes.
It's perfect for making silken, firm, or extra-firm without any cracks. The self-contained design with the easy-pour spout makes it simple to press a tofu block, and the marinating lid is great for adding flavor and marinating it overnight. Choose your favorite consistency and enjoy delicious tofu anytime!
What’s Good to Know
All you need to do is simply twist the dial and it will give you a good, even press without any cracks. Just tighten the stainless steel spring lightly so as not to crush the block, and you're good to go!
The depth marking on the water catcher will help you remember what firmness you prefer your block to be so you will always get the same consistency.
With the patented U-shaped drip tray, you can easily place and move your tofu to avoid crumbling. The base of this innovative design also keeps pressed products from soaking in the drained liquid!
The compact and extra sturdy design of this NOYA Adjustable Tofu Press makes it perfect for any kitchen. Plus, it's dishwasher safe. It's sure to make your tofu-loving friends jealous.
We Love It Because:
The TofuBud Tofu Press is a great way to make delicious tofu at home! This nifty little gadget will provide you with a perfectly pressed block without any hassle.
With two pressure levels for firm or extra firm tofu, it's easy to use, clean, and store. The dishwasher-safe, removable translucent drainer holds the drained water.
There's also a recipe book included making it easy to find the perfect meal for any occasion.
What’s Good to Know
Loving tofu, but hating how long it takes to prepare a tofu block? Look no further! With this TofuBud Tofu Press, you can take the hassle of pressing and draining excess liquid out of your block of tofu in just 15 minutes. All you have to do is place the block in between the plates and twist the handle - easy peasy! Who knew prepping tofu could be so easy and effortless?
Not only is it an incredibly fast way to get your favorite food prepped and ready for the oven or pan, but it also works wonders when used as a paneer press or cheese press.
The TofuBud is also made of food-grade stainless steel and BPA-free plastic.
Just remember depending on the thickness of your tofu block, you may have to drain some liquid halfway through the process.
We Love It Because:
Are you looking for an easy and efficient way to remove the water? Look no further than the Yarkor Tofu Press!
This simple 3-piece device is BPA-free plastic and dishwasher safe, making it a convenient and healthy option for pressing tofu.
It also comes with cheesecloth for cheese, yogurt, and frozen spinach pressing, and also has a 2-year free replacement warranty.
With this tofu press, you can easily remove water from tofu in 10-20 minutes, improve the taste of tofu, and make delicious paneer!
What’s Good to Know:
With its convenient water-collecting tray to catch the excess water and fast pressing time of 15-20 minutes, you'll have delicious tofu in no time. Or, if you want a firmer block, simply press it longer.
This one is perfect for 8-12 ounce bricks. But if that's not enough for your family dinner, the Yarkor also comes in a larger size that is perfect for 12-16 ounce bricks - just be prepared to pay a little extra.
Some people may find it hard to press down the clips as several reviews stated that they were very hard to use.
Another great Yarkor that we didn't review is the Yarkor Bamboo Tofu Press you might want to check out.
We Love It Because:
If simple is your style, then the Tofuture Tofu Press is the press for you! Composed of only three pieces of high-quality plastic that is eco-friendly, this press requires hardly any effort from you.
Once set up, there are no knobs to adjust - just pull the elastic bands around the hooks and push down both handles and let the press do its thing! Pop it in your fridge and soon enough it'll have converted your tofu block into a deliciously pressed masterpiece.
Plus, it can take hot or cold temperatures like a champ. So grab your Tofuture press today to take away much of the hassle out of prepping tofu!
What’s Good to Know:
With Tofuture's Tofu Press, the inner container has legs so your tofu will never come into contact with any extracted water.
But that's not all. The pressure bands are crafted from a durable silicone that is resistant to heat, ozone, and UV light.
Oh, and as if that wasn't enough, don't forget that these little bands can also help you whip up some delicious silken tofu using the convenient top hook!
And of course, once you're done, it's all dishwasher-safe! What more could you possibly want in your tofu-making adventure?
Plus the 2-year warranty has got your back - so get ready for some serious tofu-tastic fun!
We Love It Because:
Looking for an easy and delicious way to add more tofu to your diet? With the Tofu Press by Grow Your Pantry, you can make delicious, fresh tofu right at home!
The Tofu Press is made with high-quality bamboo and food-grade stainless steel that is naturally BPA-free. It also comes with an eBook guide with over 100 recipes.
You'll also have digital access to 30+ guides, tutorials, and articles to help you make the best tofu every time.
Plus, the Tofu Press comes with a cotton tote storage bag for easy storage in your kitchen. So why wait? Get the Tofu Press today and start enjoying delicious, healthy tofu meals today!
What’s Good to Know
Of all the tofu presses on the market, bamboo is a great material to work with when you're looking for an eco-friendly and durable solution. That's why this tofu press might just be your choice.
The slotted holes have been engineered for faster drainage of tofu ensuring a firmer block in less time.
You can also rest easy knowing that the 3-year warranty will have your back should anything happen.
We must let you know, though, according to some customer reviews, the stainless steel tightening nuts might be difficult to use. However, assembling or disassembling the press shouldn't be too much of an issue. Just make sure that you don't lose those small parts! That's where the cotton tote will come in handy for storing those parts.
All in all, this tofu press by Grow Your Pantry is a good investment, even though it's more expensive than the other presses we reviewed.
We Love It Because:
Who knew making tofu could be so EZ? With this ez tofu press designed for simplicity, you can quickly and easily press your tofu to perfection - with no mess, and no fuss.
Whether you're a tofu pro or just getting started, this ez tofu press is user-friendly, dishwasher safe, and perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy delicious, healthy tofu dishes.
Made with a stainless steel grommet top plate for smooth pressing, it can be used with most tofu mold sizes. It is also made from quality. BPA-free plastic.
So if you're looking for an easy way to make delicious tofu at home, the EZ Tofu Press is the perfect solution.
What’s Good to Know
Getting the perfect firmness from your tofu doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the EZ press, it only takes about fifteen minutes, depending on the desired level of firmness. Plus, this press can be used with just about any size of block.
Its incredibly simple design has a butterfly screw and threaded metal rod setup. It does not come with a drip tray, so just make sure you set up the press in a container so you don't end up with a wet mess!
The only downside is that you'll need to manually add tension in small increments every 2-3 minutes until the water has been fully removed - but this process goes rather quickly and you'll love this ez tofu press.
We Love It Because:
Raw Rutes is much more expensive than other presses we reviewed, but if looking for an ultra heavy duty press, look no further than Raw Rutes! This tofu press is made in the USA with stainless steel, and it's the last tofu press you'll ever need to buy - Ninja guarantees it! It makes tofu pressing a snap!
There are no plastic parts to break and no springs either. This press is built to last. Plus, the 5 pound pressing weight ensures perfect results every time whether you want firm tofu or extra firm tofu. So why settle for anything less? Get your hands on a Raw Rutes Tofu Press today!
What You Should Know
If you're looking for an efficient and durable tofu press, then this gravity-based press may be a great option. Although it is on the pricier side compared to other presses we've reviewed, its food-grade stainless steel construction and design guarantee that it works perfectly each time.
However, the manufacturer suggests only hand washing for maintenance – but your cleaning efforts are quick and easy.
Just be sure to place it in a pan or large bowl so the drips from the pressing won't make a mess—because with no tray to catch water, you'll definitely want to avoid any water messes either on your counter or your refrigerator!
Bertie's FAQ & Guide Section
When researching the best tofu presses, we found that there are many FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) that came up. Here are some of the most common questions:
What exactly is tofu?
Tofu is a culinary miracle, not just because it tastes amazing but because of its unique and versatile qualities. It has its roots in ancient China but today it is found in many different traditional dishes across the globe.
It is made from soybeans that have been soaked and mashed up into a paste. From there, the paste is molded into blocks or cubes. Once the excess water is drained out, it is ready to be sliced and fried, baked, or boiled!
The great thing about tofu is that for those looking for a vegan or vegetarian alternative to meat-based protein sources, it can step in and do the job nicely; it’s packed with important nutrients.
There are endless ways to cook with this magical foodstuff, so why not discover them for yourself?
What are the pros and cons of eating tofu?
Eating tofu can certainly be a delicious and healthy way to get more plant-based proteins into your diet - but it isn't always the easiest to work with.
One of its major pros is that it's super versatile and able to take on any number of flavors and textures when cooked. Plus, it's low in fat, carbohydrates, and calories, making it attractive for those watching their weight.
On the flip side, though, tofu is also known for being bland or squishy if not seasoned properly or cooked correctly. It can also be easy to overcook and turn rubbery. If that happens, try slicing it thinner next time or marinating it before cooking for a deliciously moist result.
Additionally, organic brands of tofu can be quite expensive. But, of course, the pros outweigh the cons because of the health benefits of eating tofu.
How long do you need to press tofu?
There really isn't a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how long to press tofu! It can depend on the type of tofu you're using, how large the tofu blocks are, how you plan to cook it and how firm you want your results - soft tofu? firm tofu? extra-firm tofu?
On average though, it is best to press your tofu for about 15 minutes for a standard block, or up to 20 minutes if you are baking or grilling it.
The key is to start by pressing with light pressure from a weight and experiment with the timing until you get just the right consistency that fits into your meal plans perfectly!
Are tofu presses worth it?
If you're looking to add another kitchen device to your arsenal, a tofu press might just be the way to go. Tofu presses can come in all shapes and sizes, giving users the freedom of choice when it comes to their cooking needs.
Plus, they make squeezing water out of a block of tofu much easier - no more having to fiddle around with paper towels! Not only that, but once you get used to using them, your tofu dishes will look absolutely fabulous - tacos stuffed with flavorful cubes of crispy tofu? Yes, please!
Purchasing a tofu press might seem like an unnecessary extra step, but if you can add ease and deliciousness to your cooking process, why not give it a try? Tofu presses can definitely make your life easier.
Can tofu be eaten raw?
Its firm texture makes it perfect for marinating and cooking, but did you know that it can be also eaten raw? It is an excellent addition to salads and sandwiches. It’s also a great snack by itself – just add some soy sauce or your favorite dip for a yummy treat with plenty of protein!
Plus, there's no need to worry about cooking time; the preparation of raw tofu that has been pressed only takes seconds! If you want to give this versatile treat a try, don't hesitate – just take the plunge! Grilled or raw, start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle!
Does tofu need to be refrigerated while being pressed?
When it comes to pressing tofu, there's a lot of conflicting information floating around. The important thing to know is that if you're trying to get your tofu extra firm and pressed, there's no harm—and actually a bit of an advantage—in putting it in the fridge for about 15 minutes before getting out the press.
Does pressed tofu need to be refrigerated?
The answer is actually quite simple - yes! While some people may attempt to store it at room temperature, this will cause it to spoil much more quickly and can lead to food poisoning if consumed. All of the tofu presses we reviewed can be put in the refrigerator during the pressing process.
For best results, keep your chilled tofu covered in an airtight container, and enjoy its deliciousness while still fresh.
What is the best way to prepare tofu?
Try marinating it in a mixture of tamari, sesame oil, and grated ginger for about 15 minutes for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.
Another great way to prepare tofu is by cutting it into cubes and roasting it until golden brown. Plenty of herbs and spices as well as seasonings will make this dish incredibly flavorful and foolproof! Whichever way you choose to prepare your tofu, be sure to have fun with it!
What to add to tofu to make it taste better?
Tofu is incredibly versatile - you can add it to salads, soups, and stir-fry dishes! It's also a great way to get a protein boost without adding meat to your meal. But sometimes tofu can be a bit bland. If you're looking for ways to make your tofu tastier, try marinating it in some teriyaki sauce or miso paste!
You could also sauté the tofu in herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, curry powder, and chili flakes if you want something with a spicy kick. Play around with different flavors until you find the perfect combination that makes your taste buds dance with joy!
Why is tofu so controversial?
Tofu has become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative, plant-based protein source. Yet many people fiercely debate over whether to include it in their diet or avoid it altogether. Some say tofu is a health food, while others argue it's not nutritious enough, unreliable in terms of origin and sustainability, harsh on the environment, or just plain unappealing.
Even its name can be the source of hilarious controversy - some prefer calling it bean curd! Whether you love or loathe tofu and everything related to it, there’s no denying that it’s certainly getting attention.
Is tofu a highly processed food?
When it comes to tofu, a lot of people assume that it's some kind of franken-food created in a lab somewhere. But the truth is, tofu is a highly nourishing food that has been eaten since ancient times! Originating in China over two thousand years ago, the process of making tofu involves coagulating soymilk, creating curds, and then pressing them into blocks - all natural and traditional processes.
Sure it might now be mass-produced on an industrial scale but these days we can access organic, sustainably produced forms of this healthy food too. So why not switch up your diet with this age-old wonder food? It'll give you a delicious break from all the processed alternatives out there!
Which type of tofu is best for weight loss?
If you’re looking to lose weight but don’t want to miss out on the deliciousness of tofu, then firm tofu is the way to go! Rich in protein, it holds its shape better when cooked, meaning that you can use it as a substitute for meats in all kinds of recipes.
Cooked up with a selection of vegetables and some low-sodium sauces or marinades, firm tofu can be a light yet satisfying meal! With its versatility, combined with being low in calories and fat, firm tofu is an excellent choice to help you keep your weight loss goals on track.
How do I know if my tofu is spoiled?
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to make sure your tofu is still safe to eat. One telltale sign that your tofu is going bad is if its edges have begun to dry out or crack. It may also start to discolor or change texture - the interior may even start to ooze watery liquid if it has gone bad. A sour or off flavor should also be avoided. If these signs are present in your tofu, discard it immediately - don't take any chances!
How long does tofu last in the fridge?
Depending on the packaging and its expiration date, tofu typically lasts for 4-5 days past its expiration date when stored properly. To keep your block of tofu flavorful and safe to consume, make sure to give it a good wrap with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Whenever in doubt of its freshness, take the "smell test" - if there's a strange smell coming from your tofu, then toss it out!
What is healthier tempeh or tofu?
Tempeh and tofu have been around for a long time and both are a great choice when it comes to looking for a healthy plant-based protein. However, tempeh has the definite upper hand since tempeh is made from whole soybeans while tofu is made from soy milk.
By that classification alone, tempeh has more fiber than tofu and will help you feel full longer than its counterpart. For people who cannot eat soy at all, neither of these options is available so double-check labels carefully before trying something new!
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a healthier option between tempeh or tofu, go with tempeh!
Can tofu cause hormonal imbalance?
While some claim that regularly consuming tofu might lead to hormonal imbalances, many of these studies are inconclusive and more research is necessary before drawing any definite conclusions. From other studies, it appears that if consumed in moderation, tofu is generally considered safe and is full of essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for our overall health.
In the meantime, there’s no reason to avoid enjoying this healthful alternative to meat - just remember to always opt for organic varieties for the most nutritional benefit.
What's the best tofu press for you?
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the best tofu presses and what we chose to be the top 7 on the market today. Now that you know a little bit more about tofu presses, which one will you be choosing? Hopefully, our article has given you good ideas for making your choice. We've also linked some great kitchen articles below you might enjoy reading:
Are you a kitchen foodie that loves to see different and useful kitchen gadgets? Check out our article below:
Bertie Bee
Need more storage area for your kitchen? We love the kitchen carts we reviewed! Here is that article link:
Bertie Bee
Thanks for stopping by our bee hive! We appreciate you!
Bertie
Member discussion