How to Press Tofu
Learn a simple method to press extra-firm tofu to remove excess water for better texture and browning.
Equipment
- Clean kitchen towel
- Rimmed Baking Sheet
- Cast-Iron Skillet
- Small cutting board
- Heavy book or canned goods
Ingredients
- 1 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu
Instructions
- Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any liquid.
- Wrap the tofu block completely in a clean kitchen towel.
- Place the wrapped tofu on a rimmed baking sheet to catch released liquid.
- Set a cast-iron skillet on top of the wrapped tofu to apply even weight; if you don't have a cast-iron skillet, use a small cutting board topped with a heavy book or canned goods.
- Press for 30 minutes, then unwrap and use the tofu in your desired recipe.
Notes
- No cast-iron pan required; a cutting board and heavy object work fine.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch moisture.
- Pressing for 30 minutes yields firmer texture for better browning.