Chef's Notes Plus

All About Tofu

Tofu, also called bean curd, is made by coagulating (or curdling) soy milk before pressing it into semi-firm blocks. The process, similar to that of cheesemaking, results in tofu of various textures, ranging from scoopable to sliceable, all useful in different kitchen applications, both sweet and savory. Tofu is very […]

Main Dishes

Grilled Tofu with Eggplant and Parmesan

Makes 4 servings The secret to grilling tofu is to first press it until most of its moisture comes out. Layer it between paper towels while pressing it and change the towels as they get wet (see the recipe for a photo). The smokiness from grilling eggplant and tofu adds […]

Salads

Kale Chopped Salad with Tofu and Coconut-Peanut Dressing

Makes 4 servings Kale is hearty and makes for a nice base for substantial salad ingredients. Be sure to give it a nice massage before serving, which will make it much less tough and “grassy”-tasting. We’ve topped this salad with lightly seasoned tofu, but you can substitute grilled shrimp, chicken, […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Silken Tofu and Cucumber Dip

Makes 12 servings Tofu is misunderstood, but we think its perceived flaws (soft, bland) are also its strengths. Because it is so neutral in flavor, tofu is actually a great base for dips and plant-forward creamy recipes, like puddings and creamy soups, because it adds protein and texture without the […]

Main Dishes

Spicy Kung Pao Tofu with Peanuts and Zucchini Noodles

Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 1 lb extra firm tofu, drained Kosher salt, as needed 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or sherry 2 tablespoons sesame oil Sauce 2 tablespoons bean sauce 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 2 tablespoons chile paste with garlic 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 2 cups peanut […]

Main Dishes

Spicy Tofu with Mushrooms

Makes 4 portions If you can’t find oyster mushrooms, you can use any mix of mushrooms that are available. For the cornstarch slurry, combine about 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water. You may not use it all; add it slowly to avoid a gummy sauce. Ingredients 3/4 tsp Sichuan […]

One-Dish Meals

Tofu Red Curry

Makes 4 servings Ingredients 1 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil 1/2 package (8 ounces) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed to remove moisture and cut into cubes 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced 1/4 cup diced yellow onion 2 garlic cloves, minced Chicken or vegetable broth, as […]