Freezing and Defrosting Tofu: This Is the Best Way to Proceed

If you want to make tofu last longer, you can freeze the soy product. Unlike vegetables or meat, tofu behaves slightly differently when freezing and thawing. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about this.

Freeze and thaw tofu: instructions

If you leave tofu in the fridge, the soy product will spoil very quickly. If you want to keep it for a longer period of time, it is best to freeze it.

• Freeze : Place tofu in a freezer bag. Squeeze the remaining air out of the bag. Then put the soy product in the freezer. If you like, you can slice the tofu block beforehand.
• Tofu can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. Since the soy product contains a lot of water, it forms a holey structure after thawing and falls apart very easily. Always keep this in mind when freezing tofu.
• Thawing : To keep your tofu from falling apart after thawing, it’s best to only thaw it as slowly as possible. It is therefore best to take the soy product out of the freezer the evening before.
• Always thaw tofu at room temperature. You can then marinate it and turn it into a dish.
• Tip : Tofu is also suitable for vegetarian grilling.

Freezing changes the consistency of tofu

If you freeze tofu, you have to assume that the consistency of the product will change significantly. You can no longer eat frozen tofu raw, you have to fry it well.

• Different types of tofu behave differently after freezing. You must therefore expect that the soy product will have large pores, become crumbly or firm.
• White tofu will firm up after freezing. You can fry it well after defrosting. As the pores enlarge, you can marinate it better. The marinade can be better absorbed by the tofu.
• The taste is therefore more intense after preparation. Be careful not to oversalt the white tofu as the large pores can hold a lot of spice.
• Silken tofu, on the other hand, becomes soft and crumbly after thawing. You can then process this tofu into soy mince or a Bolognese.
• Note that frozen tofu can turn yellowish in color. After thawing, however, the color disappears again.

Make your own freeze-dried tofu

For example, you can prepare tofu as a freeze-dried version. You can do this at home too.

1. You can also make the freeze-dried version of tofu yourself. Freeze the tofu for a day.
2. Then remove the soy product and let it thaw slowly at room temperature.
3. Then squeeze the tofu well and let it dry thoroughly. If you want to prepare it right away, fry the tofu in a little oil.