Silken tofu is one of the most versatile ingredients and tastes great in a big variety of savory recipes such as soups, pasta sauces and dips. But did you know that you can also make the most indulgent desserts using silken tofu? Believe me when I say it's an ingredient that's definitely worth exploring!
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Silken tofu has become a staple in vegan cooking which is why most of the recipes below are vegan silken tofu recipes. Because of its distinct texture, this type of tofu is often used in cheesecakes, creamy mousse recipes or pasta sauces.
What is Tofu?
Tofu is made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the curds into solid white blocks. The process is similar to cheese-making.
In the US, tofu is often made from GMO (genetically modified) soybeans. If you're trying to avoid GMO foods then choose organic tofu instead!
Since it's made from soy milk, tofu is naturally dairy-free, nut-free and high in protein.
What is Silken Tofu?
Silken tofu is a specific type of tofu. It's very soft and delicate and can be used in a variety of recipes. The main difference between silken tofu and firm tofu is their texture.
Silken Tofu vs. Firm Tofu
There are different types of tofu and they are distinguished according to their texture: silken, regular, firm and extra-firm.
- Silken Tofu: has a silky, creamy texture because of its high water content. It's very wobbly- a block of silken tofu will fall apart once it's out of the package. Silken tofu is also known as Japanese-style tofu and because of its texture, it's great in recipes such as soups, smoothies, creamy desserts or dips and sauces.
- Regular Tofu: It's a little firmer than silken tofu but still quite soft. It soaks up the flavors of sauces really well which is why it's a common ingredient in Asian dishes.
- Firm Tofu: is the one that's mostly available in grocery stores. It has a lower water content and is usually used in pan-fried tofu recipes.
- Extra-Firm Tofu: Holds even less water than firm tofu. It's also often used for stir-fries or deep-fried recipes but doesn't absorb the flavor of marinades as well.
Nutritional Values
Tofu is very nutrient dense. Compared to its calories, it has a lot to offer!
First of all, it's a complete protein which means that it contains all the essential amino acids. Tofu is also high vitamins and minerals in calcium, manganese, copper and selenium and Vitamin A.
Additionally, it's high in fiber which is linked to a healthy gut. You can read more about the benefits of tofu here.
How to Use Silken Tofu?
Because of its specific soft and silky texture, silken tofu is very versatile and can be used in a variety of sweet and savory recipes. It's very delicate though and not suited for frying, grilling or any other recipes that would the tofu require to hold its shape.
It's also a protein-rich ingredient and often used in vegan or vegetarian recipes as a meat substitute.
It also tastes great in soups, pasta dishes, pies or dips and sauces. My favorite way of using silken tofu though is in desserts!
FAQs
No, the tofu mostly available in grocery stores is firm tofu/ regular tofu. The texture of firm tofu differs a lot from the texture of silky tofu so make sure to look for silky tofu specifically. If you can't get it in the supermarket, you can order it online.
No, because of their different textures silken tofu and normal tofu can not be used interchangeably. Silken tofu has a silky, creamy texture because of its high water content. It's very wobbly- a block of silken tofu will fall apart once it's out of the package.
No, silken tofu will stay very soft which is why it's used in certain recipes in the first place.
Silken tofu doesn't need to be pressed like regular tofu in order to get rid of the excess water. Simply drain any excess liquid left and use the tofu right away.
Breakfast
This recipe collection includes 3 different silken tofu breakfast recipes. You'll see that it's often used as an egg replacer and you can even use it in overnight oats to add some protein and creamy texture.
Appetizers, Soups & Side Dishes
Miso Soup might be the one recipe that comes into your mind when you think of tofu in soups. While it's still a delicious classic, there are also a lot of other ways to include silken tofu in appetizer, soup or side dish recipes.
Main Dishes
Soft silken tofu is perfect for creating creamy sauces which is why it's a popular ingredient in pasta dishes. It's also used in typical Korean stews or other vegan recipes such as vegan pot pies or quiche. Below you'll find a variety of vegan lunch and dinner recipes.
Desserts
These silken Tofu Dessert Recipes will blow your mind! Think creamy chocolate mousse, vegan cheesecake recipes or other no-bake desserts. You can even make ice cream with silken tofu- it sure is a magic ingredient!
Dips & Sauces
Because of its smooth texture, silken tofu can be used to create high-protein, dairy-free salad dressings, dips and sauces.
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