I use firm tofu at least four times a week, and I have learnt that all firm tofu is not created equally. Also, just because some are on the pricier end of the scale, it does not mean that these will be the nicest tofu.
I have grown to love tofu (Bean curd) more and more by experimenting with different recipes and flavours. I want a firm tofu that does not crumble when being pressed or cut, and absorbs the flavours I use fully.
What is your favourite recipe to cook using firm tofu?
I am also learning new techniques to prepare it all the time. One thing I have always done is to place newly bought tofu straight into the freezer. This changes its texture, becoming firmer with a chewier bite. It also makes it more absorbent, which helps it to soak up more of any marinade or flavours you add.
New
Dragonfly Organic Super Firm Tofu 300 g for £1.50- £2.00
For a long time, this award-winning tofu was a firm favourite, and I tended to stick to this brand for a while. This comes packed in water, so it needs to be drained and pressed to remove the water content. I have used this tofu in both sweet and savoury recipes, and one of the many good points is that it does not fall apart when being cooked. It has a naturally mild flavour, and it takes on marinades so well. Perfect for stir-fries, vegan egg fried rice and curries
9/10
Tofoo Co Organic Tofu XL 450 g for £3.50
This tofu has a neutral aroma, and it is handmade and organic. It is 100% natural and non-GM. There are visible pockets of air all over the surface, which enables it to soak up marinades like a sponge, making it a perfect vessel to absorb flavour. Once dusted in seasoned cornflour, it becomes lovely and crisp, especially when sautéed or cooked in an air fryer. This is great on the BBQ when used for kebabs. My only gripe with this brand is the shape. If you are breaking it up or using it for a scramble, it doesn’t matter; if you want cubes, it is more difficult, and it can be a little crumbly.
8/10
VIVERA Quick Marinating Tofu Firm 2x 200 g for £2.00 Organic
This product has only just appeared on the shelves. It was released on June 9th. Most of their products contain wheat, so they are not available to me.
This is unusual from the tofu on sale at the moment, as it comes pre-frozen. I liked that idea because I always freeze my tofu when I purchase it. It states that it can be marinated in 5 minutes, and comes in two separate 200 g packs. It does say it is firm, but I would argue there. I marinated mine, and then I cooked them in a cast-iron pan for the usual amount of time. I was slightly surprised by the texture on the inside, which was very soft, and it had a somewhat wobbly texture, unlike any tofu I normally pre-freeze. I will try the second block to see if I get a different result. I
I cooked the second block the next day, and it was fine. I found it just needed a little extra cooking. I did find the claim that it only takes 5 minutes to marinate a little misleading. Mine took at least 15 minutes. That doesn’t bother me as I usually marinate overnight.
7/10
M&S Plant Kitchen Super Firm £2.50 for 300 g
I used to buy this product regularly. It does say it is super-firm, but I have to disagree with that. I would say it is firm at best when rid of all the water. It does make a lovely tofu scramble, though, because it is not too dry. For that reason, I usually keep one in the freezer.
7/10
Tesco Plant Chef Organic Firm Tofu £1.99 for 399g
This is one of the tofus that needs pressing, as it does contain a lot of liquid. The packaging on this is a little misleading. It states in large letters that the product weighs 339g. That is the weight, including the liquid. The tofu weighs 300g before being pressed. Once it was pressed, the actual weight was 265g, a bit different. To me, it was still soft and crumbly. This is fine for tofu scramble and vegan egg fried rice.
It’s a no for me, Tesco’s
5/10
Sainsbury’s So Organic Super Firm Tofu 300g £1.34
This is my favourite tofu and the one I buy the most. There are always at least 2 in my freezer at all times.
It’s super firm yet soft enough for tofu scramble or vegan egg fried rice. Whatever you need to make a recipe using tofu, this one covers it. At only £1.34 for 300g, the price is competitive. This tofu absorbs any marinade well in just an hour.
I find no negative comments about this brand. I freeze it, and then I can squeeze out the excess moisture with my hands. It has never crumbled or fallen apart on me. I freeze the whole packet, defrost, tip and squeeze.
10/10
Aldi Plant Menu Organic Super Firm 180 g £0.89
Aldi Plant Menu Sweet Chilli Marinated Tofu 180 g £0.89
I like the tofu from Aldi. The super firm is just that. It contains very little water, so it doesn’t need to be pressed; just a gentle squeeze is enough, and you’re ready to go. It has a very subtle taste and absorbs flavours well. It is organic, and at £ 0.89 for 2 servings, it is incredible value. I’m also a fan of the marinated sweet chilli version. I like the fact that if I’m in a hurry or decide at the last minute I want tofu for dinner, it’s ready to go.
9/10
Morrisons Plant Revolution organic super firm tofu and organic super firm smoked tofu
They are £1.50 for a 180 g packet
I have never tried this tofu, I see no reason to pay 61p more than the Aldi brand. I have asked a few people for their reviews on this product. This is one that also does not need to be drained, as it contains very little water. I am informed it absorbs flavours well and is great for stir-fries.
Tofu Recipes
- Carrot, lentil & butterbean soup
- Red Thai & Butternut Squash Soup
- Spiced Orchard & nutty crumble
- Vegan Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Yorkshire Parkin
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