Silken Tofu

Silken tofu, also known as soft tofu or Japanese-style tofu, is a delicate and versatile soy product with a creamy, custard-like texture and a subtle, mild flavor. Its smooth, almost pudding-like consistency makes it ideal for blending into smoothies, desserts, sauces, and dips. Unlike other types of tofu, silken tofu is undrained and unpressed, retaining a high water content, which contributes to its characteristic smoothness and delicate structure. It's available in various levels of firmness, although even the firmest silken tofu remains considerably softer than regular firm or extra-firm tofu, making it a popular choice for vegan and vegetarian recipes that require a smooth, rich, and creamy texture.

Soy Product Tofu Vegan Ingredient Dairy-Free Ingredient

Common Uses

Making creamy vegan desserts like chocolate mousse or pudding: Silken tofu's smooth texture and mild flavor make it an excellent base for rich, decadent vegan desserts. Simply blend it with sweeteners, cocoa powder, and flavorings like vanilla extract to create a velvety smooth treat that rivals traditional dairy-based desserts.
Thickening smoothies and shakes for added protein: Add a serving of silken tofu to your favorite smoothie or shake for a boost of protein and a creamier consistency without altering the flavor profile significantly. It's a healthy and convenient way to enhance the nutritional value and texture of your blended drinks.
Creating smooth and savory sauces and dips: Blend silken tofu with herbs, spices, lemon juice, and other seasonings to create luscious vegan sauces and dips for vegetables, pasta, or crackers. Its neutral flavor allows it to seamlessly incorporate into a variety of savory flavor combinations, providing a healthy and delicious alternative to dairy-based sauces.
Using as an egg substitute in vegan baking: Silken tofu can be used as a substitute for eggs in certain vegan baking recipes, particularly those where moisture and binding are crucial. It helps create a tender and moist crumb in cakes, muffins, and other baked goods. Replace one egg with about 1/4 cup of pureed silken tofu.
Adding a creamy texture to miso soup or other soups: Swirl in small cubes of silken tofu into a bowl of warm miso soup just before serving for a silky smooth texture and subtle flavor. It adds a delightful contrast to the savory broth and provides a light and refreshing element to the soup.
Making a base for vegan mayonnaise: For a healthier and lighter mayonnaise alternative, blend silken tofu with oil, lemon juice, vinegar, and mustard. It creates a creamy and tangy mayonnaise that is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a dipping sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

50.0kcal (2.5%)

Protein

4.8g (9.6%)

Carbs

0.8g (0.29%)

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

2.2g

Unhealthy Fat

0.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

Rich in plant-based protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Excellent source of iron, helping to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Contains essential amino acids, vital for various bodily functions.
Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
May help lower cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
Provides calcium and magnesium, contributing to bone health and strength.

Substitutes

Egg

Storage Tips

Silken tofu's high moisture content makes proper storage essential. Unopened packages can be stored at room temperature until the expiration date. Once opened, transfer any unused portion to an airtight container, cover it with fresh water, and refrigerate. Change the water daily to maintain freshness. Use refrigerated silken tofu within 2-3 days for optimal quality. Freezing is not generally recommended as it significantly alters the texture, making it grainy and watery upon thawing.