Recipe Note

FAQ: How to Prep Tofu Without a Tofu Press

Q1: Why should I press tofu before cooking?
Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, helping it absorb marinades and sauces more deeply. It also gives the tofu a firmer texture, so it crisps beautifully in your stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes — just like in Thai home cooking.

Q2: What kind of tofu should I use?
Use firm or extra-firm tofu. These types hold their shape and press easily, making them perfect for sautéing, baking, or grilling. Silken tofu is best saved for soups or desserts.

Q3: Can I press tofu without a tofu press?
Absolutely! Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place it on a plate, and set something heavy on top — like a cast-iron pan, a cutting board with canned goods, or even a small stack of books. This simple method works just as well as a store-bought tofu press.

Q4: How long should I press the tofu?
For best results, press tofu for 20–30 minutes. If you want it extra firm and crispy, go up to an hour. Even a quick 10-minute press can make a noticeable difference if you’re short on time.

Q5: Do I need to dry the tofu after pressing?
Yes. After pressing, gently unwrap the tofu and pat it dry with a clean towel to remove any remaining moisture before cooking or marinating.

Q6: Can I freeze tofu before pressing it?
Yes! Freezing tofu changes its texture, making it chewier and more sponge-like — perfect for soaking up Thai sauces such as Watcharee’s Pad Thai Sauceor Thai Red Curry Sauce. Thaw it completely, then press it as usual.

Q7: Can I over-press tofu?
It’s rare, but if you press it for too long without allowing air circulation, the tofu can become overly dry or crumbly. About an hour is a safe upper limit.

Q8: What recipes can I make with pressed tofu?
Pressed tofu works wonderfully in Thai curries, stir-fried vegetables, noodle bowls, and even grilled skewers. It absorbs sauce and seasoning beautifully, making it an ideal base for flavorful Thai-inspired meals.

Q9: How do I make tofu taste better after pressing?
Once pressed and dried, marinate tofu in your favorite Watcharee’s sauce for at least 15 minutes. This helps it soak up rich Thai flavors — creamy coconut, spicy curry, or savory tamarind — and gives it that restaurant-style depth of taste.

Q10: How do I store pressed tofu?
If you’re not cooking it right away, store pressed tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze it, then thaw and re-press before using.