From the Forums: Troubleshooting Tofu

The vegetarian forums are a great place to ask questions, offer your own advice, or just find out about some of the common questions people ask about vegetarianism and vegetarian cooking. Recently, a reader asked in the forum:

I'm new to using tofu and everytime I use it, it doesn't turn out just right. It falls apart and starts looking like scrambled eggs when I don't want it to. Will someone please save me from another tofu disaster!

Here's what I replied:

From your description, it sounds like you want to be using firm or extra firm tofu. If you have been using silken, silk, soft or medium, I'd try switching to firm or extra firm - the kind in a plastic container, not in a cardboard-like box. It also sounds like maybe you need to drain and gently press your tofu.

If you're still finding that nothing works for you here's what to do:

• Open your package of tofu and gently pour out the water.
  
• Freeze until firm or mostly firm, at least 2-3 hours (freezing will remove even more water than pressing, but will slightly change the texture of the tofu).
  
• Thaw slightly, enough to cut into whatever sized pieces you need.
  

Let me know if this works for you, and good luck!

If you have some questions about going vegetarian, need some cooking tips, or have some advice to share, why not wander on over to the vegetarian forums and join in the conversation?