Pressing tofu to remove excess moisture helps it brown and crisp, producing a firmer, chewier texture that many people prefer. Even extra-firm tofu is sold packed in water and can be soft straight from the package. For stir-fries and pan-seared dishes, removing that water allows the tofu to caramelize on the outside, creating a pleasant contrast of a crisp exterior and a tender interior.
When you press tofu it holds its shape better while cooking and is less likely to fall apart. Removing liquid also prevents sogginess and helps the tofu absorb marinades and sauce flavors. You don’t need a specialized press to do this—just a couple of heavy objects, some towels, and a flat surface will do the job.
- How to Press Tofu Without a Press
- How to Press Sliced Tofu
- Pressing Tofu with a Tofu Press
- How Long Does Tofu Take to Press?
- Storage
- 8 Tofu Recipes
How to Press Tofu: Pressing tofu allows it to brown, crisp, and absorb more flavor. Below are easy methods to press tofu without a press.
How to Press Tofu Without a Press
These methods work with any tofu type. Choose flat plates or cutting boards so they sit evenly on top and bottom of the tofu. Always drain the package water first.
- Prepare the surface: Lay a dishtowel or several paper towels on a flat plate or cutting board. Add an extra layer of paper towels and set the block of tofu on top.
- Cover the tofu: Place another paper towel over the tofu and then a dish towel to distribute pressure and protect the top plate or board from moisture.
- Add weight: Put a second flat plate or cutting board on top, then add heavy items—large cans or a few heavy books—on top of that. Let the tofu drain for about 45 minutes. Most of the released liquid will be absorbed by the towels; discard or squeeze out the towels, pat the tofu dry with fresh paper towels, and proceed with your recipe.
How to Press Sliced Tofu
If your recipe calls for slabs, slice the tofu before pressing; if you need cubes, press first and cut afterward for best texture.
- Slice and set up: Cut the block into 8–10 rectangular slabs. Place dishtowels or a rimmed baking sheet on the counter, then a layer of paper towels.
- Sandwich with towels: Arrange the slabs on the paper towels, cover with more paper towels and a couple of dishtowels to soak up moisture.
- Weigh down: Set a cutting board on top and place heavy cans or books on it. Let the tofu rest for about 30 minutes while the towels absorb the expelled water.
- Finish: Blot the slabs dry with fresh towels, proceed with your recipe, and cube if needed.
Pressing Tofu with a Tofu Press
Tofu presses are an affordable convenience for people who cook tofu frequently. They apply even pressure and can extract a surprising amount of water—some people press overnight in the fridge. Different models include specific instructions, but their purpose is the same: consistent pressure for drier, firmer tofu.
How Long Does Tofu Take to Press?
Plan on about 30 to 45 minutes for most household pressing methods. If you have sufficient weight applied, 45 minutes will remove most of the liquid; pressing longer won’t significantly firm the tofu further. For convenience, you can press overnight in the refrigerator.
You don’t have to press tofu — it’s safe to cook straight from the package — but unpressed tofu contains more water, which prevents browning and makes achieving crispness difficult. Unpressed tofu also absorbs less flavor from marinades and is more likely to become soggy or fall apart while cooking. Pressing improves texture and flavor absorption.
Storage
Store pressed tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. If you plan to keep tofu longer, submerge it in fresh water and change the water daily to preserve texture and freshness.
Kitchen Smarts
If you’re fed up with soft, mushy tofu, try pan-searing for crisp edges after pressing to get a satisfying texture and better flavor absorption.
8 Tofu Recipes
Korean Tofu Salad
Simple Stir-Fried Crispy Tofu and Vegetables
Spicy, Sweet, and Nutty Tofu
Vegetarian Pad Thai
Vegetable Udon Noodle Soup
Orange Tofu
Tofu with Peanut Sauce
