When it comes to tofu, I’ve tried them all: silken, soft, firm, and extra-firm. While each type has its own charm and culinary purpose, there’s one that stands out to me as the ultimate star in the tofu lineup—extra-firm tofu. Here’s why it’s my favorite and how you can make the most of it in your kitchen.
1. It Holds Its Shape Like a Pro
Unlike softer varieties of tofu that can break apart easily, extra-firm tofu holds its shape beautifully. This makes it ideal for stir-fries, grilling, and even baking. I love cutting it into cubes or slabs, knowing that it’ll keep its structure, whether I’m tossing it in a hot pan or layering it in a hearty sandwich.
2. Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside
One of the best things about extra-firm tofu is that it can get perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside. This texture contrast makes it a delight to eat, especially when pan-fried or baked. Pro tip: pressing your tofu before cooking helps remove excess moisture, which allows it to crisp up even better!
3. It Soaks Up Marinades Like a Sponge
While tofu on its own has a mild flavor, extra-firm tofu has a dense texture that makes it perfect for absorbing marinades. Whether I’m craving something savory like a soy-ginger glaze or something spicy with chili and garlic, I know that extra-firm tofu will soak up the flavors and transform into a tasty, flavor-packed dish.
4. It’s Protein-Packed and Satisfying
I love that extra-firm tofu is not only delicious but also a great source of protein. A typical 3.5-ounce serving has about 10 grams of protein, which makes it a satisfying addition to any meal. It’s especially great when I’m looking to create a plant-based dish that still leaves me feeling full and energized.
5. Versatile for Any Dish
Extra-firm tofu is incredibly versatile. It can be cubed and tossed in a salad, sliced and grilled for a sandwich, or crumbled to make a plant-based “scramble.” One of my go-to recipes is tofu tacos—crumbled and spiced with cumin, paprika, and chili powder, it creates a flavorful and satisfying filling that rivals any meat-based taco.
How to Get the Best Out of Extra-Firm Tofu
If you want to make the most of extra-firm tofu, here are a few tips:
- Press it: Before cooking, press your tofu for 15-30 minutes to remove excess water. This will help it get crispy and absorb more flavors.
- Marinate it: Since extra-firm tofu is so dense, it can soak up marinades really well. Give it at least 30 minutes in your favorite marinade, or even let it sit overnight for maximum flavor.
- Cook it high and dry: Whether you’re frying, baking, or grilling, make sure to cook tofu over high heat to get that perfect crispy exterior. You can toss it in a little oil and cornstarch for an extra crunch.
Extra-firm tofu has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen, and for good reason. It’s versatile, packed with protein, and can take on just about any flavor or texture I need. Whether you’re a tofu newbie or a longtime fan, give extra-firm tofu a try—you won’t be disappointed!
