Tips for Buying and Storing Tofu |
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Tofu most commonly is sold in water-filled tubs, vacuum packs, or in aseptic brick packages. Tofu is usually found in the produce section of the grocery store, although some stores sell tofu in the dairy or deli sections. Sometimes tofu is sold in bulk in food cooperatives or Asian markets. Unless it is aseptically packaged, tofu should be kept cold. As with any perishable food, check the expiration date on the package.
Once the tofu package is open, leftover tofu should be rinsed and covered with fresh water for storage in the refrigerator. Change the water daily, to keep it fresh, and use the tofu within a week.
Tofu can be frozen for up to five months. Defrosted tofu has a pleasant caramel color and chewy, spongy texture that soaks up marinade sauces and is great for the grill.
| Here are some ideas for introducing tofu to your family: |
- Stir silken tofu into sour cream for a reduced fat baked potato topper
- Replace all or part of the cream in creamed soups with silken tofu
- Substitute pureed silken tofu for part of the mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, or ricotta cheese in a recipe. Use it in dips and creamy salad dressings.
- Marinate tofu in barbecue sauce, char it on the grill and serve on crusty Italian bread
- Add chunks of firm tofu to soups and stews
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| By Kathy Duran, R.D., Nutrition Director of the Cooper Wellness Program. |
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