Introduction
Shelf stable tofu has a shelf life of a few months to a year, while refrigerated tofu usually only lasts about a month. Once the packaging is opened, the tofu will keep for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. This is true for refrigerated and shelf-stable tofu.
What’s the best way to freeze tofu?
To freeze, cut the extra firm tofu into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick slices, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet or dish, and place them in the freezer overnight. (At this point, the tofu can be placed in ziplock bags and stored in the freezer for up to a month.)
Why is tofu not suitable for freezing?
Frozen tofu causes the water trapped in the tofu to expand, which enlarges these pores. Once you thaw frozen tofu, you end up with a thicker tofu texture that has bigger holes in it (it’s like cheddar turning into Swiss cheese).
Can packaged tofu be frozen?
Freezing Tofu Option 1: Simply place the entire unopened package of tofu in the freezer. It will take longer to thaw on this route, but I did it this way and found it worked great. Tofu Freeze Option 2: Remove tofu and cut into slices or cubes, then freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag ($10, target).
Can you freeze raw tofu?
How to freeze tofu. Freezing tofu is easy and you can freeze any variety whether silken, firm or extra firm. All you have to do is cut the tofu into cubes of your desired size, freeze them on a baking sheet and store them in a freezer container until you are ready to thaw them and to cook them.
How long does tofu keep in the fridge?
three to five days
An original package of unopened tofu can last three to five days in the refrigerator; opened tofu can also, but must be stored in an airtight container with water. Frozen tofu can last for several months, although freezers change the consistency of food.
Should I squeeze the water out of tofu before freezing it?
The first step is to drain the tofu (also called pressed tofu). Removing the water from tofu before freezing it helps prevent ice formation both on the outside and inside of the tofu.
Why does tofu turn brown in the freezer?
The water still present in the tofu expands as it freezes, creating holes. And frozen tofu takes on that deep yellowish-brown color. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw it first. The traditional way is to put it in a container, pour boiling water over it, and let it sit until the water cools and you can handle it.
Is it healthy to eat tofu?
Tofu contains several vitamins and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, B vitamins, and iron. It is also a good source of manganese, copper and zinc. Additionally, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics mentions that tofu also has antioxidant properties.
Can you freeze tofu without draining it?
To freeze tofu:
Drain it of the liquid it came in. At this point you can pat it dry and squeeze it to remove excess liquid, but that’s not necessary.
Conclusion
Thawing frozen tofu in the refrigerator
Place frozen tofu in the refrigerator to thaw overnight or during the day. This method of thawing will take about 8 hours approximately.
