It’s easy to become more plant-based when there are vegetarian tofu recipes for literally every meal of the day, dessert included (can a steak do that?). A versatile, soy-based bean curd, tofu is an excellent source of protein for vegetarian recipes or vegan recipes — yep, we included some vegan tofu recipes here too — and once you learn how to cook tofu properly, you’ll be adding it to your meals like it’s chicken. Tofu is like a blank canvas for flavors, whether you love ginger and garlic (try our Sweet and Sticky Tofu with Baby Bok Choy!) or spicy buffalo sauce (hello, Crispy Buffalo Tofu Bites), it’s easy to tweak the taste to your preferences. With so many healthy tofu recipes, you'll never have to go without a delicious, plant-based plate.
How to cook tofu
• Tofu comes in different densities, ranging from soft to extra-firm. Soft is better for purées or some soups and stews, while firm is better for frying and baking. It’s important to seek out the type of tofu that the recipe calls for.
• “Pressing” tofu helps extract excess moisture, which is essential for achieving crispiness. Wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel and place a heavy pan on top; let it drain as long as you can before proceeding with the recipe.
• Just like any cut of meat, you can marinate tofu for a major flavor boost. Just don’t leave it in the marinade for too long (an hour, tops!), or it will get soggy.
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1Sticky Tofu Bowl
Mike Garten
Roast tofu with soy sauce, dark brown sugar and chili garlic sauce for an irresistible sweet-salty flavor. Add perfectly cooked rice and pickled cucumbers to make an easy, delicious family dinner.
Japanese Katsu features a crisp cutlet, luscious curry sauce and a sweet drizzle over rice. This plant-based version has all of the crave-able crunch you want and plenty of flavor.
This rich, spicy soup is infinitely adaptable: swap out ingredients you don't have on hand, or make the broth with vegetable stock for a completely vegetarian version.
The balanced combo of sweet, salty and sour flavors come together in one easy lettuce wrap. If you're looking for a little extra crunch, add some fresh vegetables, like cucumber and sliced bell pepper.
Tofu is an epic plant-based stand-in for animal proteins. Exhibit A: This sandwich, rich with hot sauce and tart from pickles, with a tender texture and crispy coating. We'll take two, please. So, while it might not be the healthiest tofu recipe on this list, it's definitely a tasty one worth trying out!
This warm, cozy dish is made with lots of veggies and spices, and it pairs perfectly with a side of yogurt. (But if you serve it with naan bread or grains instead, it'll be completely vegan!)
Soft tofu is the secret ingredient that makes this vegan spinach dip taste like the real thing. Your cheese-loving friends won't even know the difference.
So now that you've seen the savory things tofu can do, may we introduce you to its sweet side for an after-dinner treat? This dreamy peanut butter cup pie has tofu to thank for its irresistible silkiness.
Chilaquiles are the best excuse to eat tortilla chips for breakfast and while they are usually topped with eggs, we've got our eyes on this tofu version with a five-ingredient chipotle sauce. And although we are
Becca MillerBecca Miller has been working with the Good Housekeeping food team since October 2018, where she researches and writes about tasty recipes, fascinating food trends, and top tools.
Samantha MacAvoySamantha MacAvoy is the Editorial Assistant on the Good Housekeeping food team, where she writes about tasty recipes from the Test Kitchen, must-try food products and tools, and top-tested secrets for home cooking success.
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