How is tofu soaked?

Soaking tofu removes excess moisture and improves its texture. Here are the steps on how to soak tofu:

1. Drain the Tofu:

- Open the tofu package and drain any liquid inside.

2. Slice the Tofu:

- Cut the tofu block into thin slices or cubes, depending on your desired shape. It's usually better to cut tofu when it's cold.

3. Press the Tofu:

- Place the tofu slices or cubes between two clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Press gently to remove excess water without breaking the tofu.

4. Soak in Water:

- Prepare a shallow dish or bowl large enough to hold the tofu. Fill the dish with cold water, ensuring the tofu is completely submerged.

- Add salt to the water. Some recommend using 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of salt per 1 quart of water. Salt helps to enhance the flavor of the tofu.

- Place the dish of tofu and water in the refrigerator.

5. Soaking Time:

- The soaking time depends on your preference. Here are some guidelines:

- For soft tofu: 15-30 minutes

- For medium-firm tofu: 30-45 minutes

- For extra firm tofu: 45-60 minutes

- Firm tofu: 1-2 hours

6. Drain and Use:

- After soaking, drain the water from the tofu slices.

- The tofu is now ready to be used in your desired recipe, whether it's stir-fries, soups, salads, or marinades.

Remember that soaking tofu is not mandatory. Some recipes may specifically call for using tofu without soaking it. Always follow the instructions in the recipe. Soaking tofu is commonly done to alter the texture and remove any bitter flavor from store-bought tofu.