How to Press Tofu

Step 1

Note: For step-by-step photos, please reference additional photos in the article above.

Step 2

Drain and remove the block of tofu from the packaging. Note: This method works best with firm and extra firm tofu.

Step 3

Set a densely-welded cooling rack within your sheet pan. Place the tofu block on the rack. Depending on how you are preparing your tofu, you can also slice the tofu block cross-wise into several pieces, as shown in the instructional photos above. Note: This allows excess draining liquid to drain and collect – without the tofu sitting in it – in the bottom of the sheet pan during pressing.

Step 4

Fold a clean kitchen linen so that it is several layers thick (for absorbing moisture) and place directly on top of the tofu block. Place a second sheet pan directly on top, lining up the edges with the bottom sheet pan so that it is evenly centered. Note: If you do not own a second sheet pan, you can use a large cutting board; however, I prefer a rimmed sheet pan. This will provide a stable, flat surface for pressing.

Step 5

Place heavily-weighted objects on the top sheet pan. A few 28-ounce cans or a heavy bowl full of onions are a great choice. Try to space the weight across the surface for even pressing.

Step 6

Press the tofu for 30 minutes, ideally, or up to 1 hour. Halfway through, replace the kitchen linen with a new dry one, as it will quickly become saturated during pressing.

Step 7

After pressing, the tofu block should be visibly thinner (as a result of excess moisture being removed). You’ll notice quite a bit of water has collected in the sheet pan below. Discard the liquid and prepare the tofu as directed in your recipe.

Step 8

How to Make Crispy Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into one-inch cubes. Toss with cornstarch in a medium bowl until each piece is well coated. Heat a thin layer of high-heat cooking oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu in batches, setting the pieces apart slightly in the pan, and cook for several minutes on each sides until crispy and golden brown. Transfer the tofu to a paper-towel lined plate (or sheet pan lined with a cooling rack) and sprinkle with salt. Add to a vegetable stir fry, toss with your favorite sauce, or top on a salad or grain bowl.