Craft the perfect tofu at home in 5 steps
What's the story
Making tofu at home can be a rewarding experience, giving you a fresh and versatile soy product. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can prepare tofu just the way you like it. Here are some essential tips to help you get started on your homemade tofu journey. From choosing the right soybeans to mastering the pressing technique, these insights will guide you through every step of the process.
Tip 1
Choosing quality soybeans
Selecting high-quality soybeans is essential for making good tofu. Go for organic, non-GMO soybeans for the best flavor and texture. Make sure the beans are fresh by checking their packaging date. Old beans may not yield enough soy milk, affecting the final product's consistency. Soaking the beans overnight will also help soften them, making it easier to extract maximum milk during blending.
Tip 2
Preparing soy milk
To prepare soy milk, rinse soaked soybeans and blend them with water until smooth. Strain this mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve to separate the liquid from the pulp (okara). The resulting liquid is your base for tofu production. You can sweeten or flavor this milk if you want, but keep it neutral if you want plain tofu.
Tip 3
Coagulating soy milk
Coagulation is the process of curdling soy milk to form tofu. Magnesium chloride (nigari) or calcium sulfate (gypsum) are commonly used coagulants. Dissolve your chosen coagulant in warm water before adding it slowly to hot soy milk while gently stirring. Let it sit covered for about 15 minutes so curds form properly.
Tip 4
Pressing curds into blocks
Once curds have formed, transfer them into a tofu mold lined with cheesecloth for easy removal later on. Press down firmly but not too hard; too much pressure will make crumbly blocks instead of smooth ones. Leave under weight, like cans or heavy plates, for about 30 minutes, depending on how firm you want your final product.
Tip 5
Storing homemade tofu
After pressing out excess liquid, remove from molds carefully without breaking apart the delicate structure inside. Store the freshly made blocks submerged in cold water within airtight containers inside the refrigerator. Change the water daily to keep them fresh longer. This way, you can enjoy homemade delights whenever the craving strikes without having to go out shopping.